Uduak George

Where are you from?

I was born and raised in Nigeria. I did my graduate studies in England and I am now residing in the US.

 

Please describe an experience (or 2) that helped you discover/ cultivate your interest in the mathematical sciences.

Mathematics has always been my best subject. I credit my 5th grade teacher for making me aware of the importance and applications of mathematics in our everyday life. One day, my 5th teacher asked us to sit around him in a circle and he told us that most of the technological advances that have changed the world have been possible through the application of mathematical knowledge to problem solving. He also told us that as our mathematical knowledge increases, we will discover and appreciate more the beauty and power of mathematics. I remember telling myself I will keep learning mathematics to make more discovery. This curiosity has helped me cultivate an interest in math.

 

What is/are your most proud accomplishment(s) in regards to your career in the mathematical sciences?

I am proud of my efforts toward educating students about the importance and applications of mathematics. I encourage them to pursue a career in mathematics. I have served as an invited guest speaker, keynote speaker and a panelist at meetings/events that aim to encourage underrepresented minorities to pursue a career in mathematics. I am also proud of my expertise in mathematics that allows me to work with colleagues from different disciplines including engineering, public health and biology to answer practical questions that impact our health and lifestyle. For example, the work I am currently doing aims to understand how tensional forces affect pubertal development of the mammary gland. This work is important because some of the processes that drive mammary gland development are often deregulated in breast cancer

 

What is/are your most proud accomplishment(s) in regards to your personal life?

I am most proud of my sons who are currently in middle school and elementary school. They are learning to be independent, considerate and have a sense of compassion especially when mum is working. I am proud of my husband especially the way he supports our sons and my career.

 

Please share some words of wisdom/inspiration.

One thing my father and mother taught me is not to look at myself based on societal expectations, and I would tell others to discover and aspire to attain their dreams regardless of societal stereotypes.