Today we interviewed a very special person: Samuele Aresca, a classmate of ours from Liceo Vittoria, as well as a participant in the mathematical Olympiad.
He recently passed the first phase and is now preparing for the regionals.
It was a surprise, to be honest. I found out I could only participate a week before, thanks to my math teacher.
Yes, although I'm still undecided about which specific path to follow. I am drawn to science, so mathematics will definitely be part of my future, whether I choose to specialize in this field or explore areas such as medicine or biotechnology.
How much time do you spend training for the Mathematical Olympiad?
Preparing for the Olympics is more of a pleasure than a duty for me. Of course, I practice solving problems.
How do you prepare specifically for the different stages of competitions?
There is a difference between the stages. For the former, it is sufficient to have a solid mathematical foundation, while the latter requires you to tackle more complex demonstrative problems. I train by looking for old evidence.
I like it because it requires more than just mnemonic study. It is a subject that stimulates reasoning and logic, especially in competitions such as the Olympics, where success depends on the ability to think creatively and critically.
Have you always had a predisposition for mathematics?
Yes, since elementary school, mathematics has always been the subject that has given me the most satisfaction and in which I have obtained the best results.
Many find math difficult. Do you have any tips for improvement?
Samuele Aresca: To be good at math, it is essential to have a solid understanding of the basics in order to progress. I recommend tackling the topics one at a time, and coming back to the basics when necessary.
How do you balance the study of mathematics with other subjects?
I organize my study in a very precise way, dedicating time to each subject. I try to tackle similar topics at the same time to optimize learning.
Yes, although I know it won't be easy. I have participated in the past and I know the difficulty of this phase. My goal is to give the best of myself.
We interviewed our partner Samuele Aresca, where he explained to us that the mathematical Olympiad is complicated, and he explained what the phases of the Olympiad are like. So we wish him the best of luck for the Olympics.