Emily Ann Cimillo explains how her passion for mathematics guided her from teaching to leading outreach at Florida Atlantic University, where she expanded Math Days and the MAA American Mathematics Competition (AMC) program. She highlights how the MAA AMC strengthens students' problem-solving skills and fosters a lasting interest in mathematics.
MAA: Can you share your journey into mathematics?
Cimillo: My journey in mathematics began when I was in elementary school. From a young age, I always enjoyed mathematics, and would often “play math” with my father. My dream, which ultimately became a reality, was to teach Math! I taught on various grade levels from 4th grade through high school after my graduation from Kean University in NJ with a bachelor’s degree in Mathematical Sciences/Teacher Education.
In August 2002, I left teaching and came to Florida Atlantic University, joining the Department of Mathematics & Statistics one year later. As their Budget/Outreach Manager, I began assisting our faculty with planning outreach events in mathematics for the K-12 community, known as our Math Days program. There is nothing more inspiring than to see the excitement and enthusiasm in these students when they came to one of our Math Day events!
Being part of a university community, I was compelled to continue my education and applied for my first master’s program in 2004, graduating with an M.Ed. in Instructional Technology in December 2006. While this degree still focused on education, I missed the focus of mathematics. At the time, I felt too much time had passed between my bachelor’s degree and master’s program, but longed to continue my education. I had never imagined pursuing a degree beyond my bachelor’s. Working in a mathematics department, I still longed to continue studying math. In 2017, my next dream evolved, and I completed my Master’s of Science in Teaching Mathematics in May 2020. This last degree proved to me that it is never too late to pursue a dream.
MAA: Tell us about your involvement with MAA.
Cimillo: My first involvement with the MAA began when I was an undergraduate student at Kean University in NJ. We had a student chapter of the MAA, and I became the Co-President during my later years at Kean. I had also attended our sectional meetings. Fast-forward to 2007, we began hosting the AMC Contests at FAU.
MAA: How did you get involved in the MAA American Mathematics Competitions program?
Cimillo: In August 2003, we began discussing possibilities of hosting mathematical competitions for high school students. We started with our own contest, Math Day, in 2004 and explored the idea of hosting national contests at FAU shortly after. Within the next few years, we began hosting AMC-10/12. Wanting to expand our outreach efforts, we added the AMC-8 Contest, which was included in our shorter version of Math Day, for middle school students. This program began as a field trip for our local middle school, and soon expanded to other schools and included individuals. Known as our AMC8 Middle School Math Day program, our program began in 2010 and welcomed roughly 100 students with their parents and/or teachers. Through the years, I became the primary Contest Manager and saw many students returning year after year.
MAA: In your experience, what is the value of the MAA AMC for students and teachers?
Cimillo: The AMC program is both challenging and rewarding for students, their parents and their teachers. Students who took the AMC Contests at FAU returned for several years, where parents would meet in a waiting area in our building while their children took the exam, and students would often meet after the event to discuss the problems. In following years, it seemed like they were meeting up with old friends, as the students got to know each other. My parents, too, seemed to enjoy coming back each year, and developed their own friendships and support groups.
MAA: What role do you think contests like the MAA AMC play in shaping the next generation of problem solvers?
Cimillo: The AMC Contests provide a unique experience for students where they need to use the mathematical skills, they gain in the classroom to complete these contests. While many students find these contests challenging, they have a great attitude toward solving these problems. They are truly excited as they qualify for the invitational contests.
MAA: What advice would you give to others looking to host the MAA AMC?
Cimillo: My advice to others who are looking to host the MAA AMC is… Do it! There are many students who are looking to participate in this contest, but need a place to take it. I have had several students over the years who made it through the invitational contests and was ultimately invited to MOP, with one student joining Team USA in 2024. All of these students were grateful to compete through FAU, as there were not many locations offering the contest.
For high school teachers, if you have a large group of students, it is worthwhile to register your own school and students for the AMC. It can also be beneficial to contact a nearby college to join their program.
For college and universities, this could be a wonderful recruitment tool. In either case, it helps inspire students to pursue mathematics. There are so many fields that benefit from a person with a strong mathematical background, and the AMC contests reinforce these skills.
Inspired by Cimillo’s dedication to engaging students in mathematics, join her in challenging and inspiring young minds. Register your school for the MAA AMC and help students develop confidence and a love for problem-solving.