Partial differential equations may sound intimidating to many, but not for recent Honors College graduate Lucas Bouck. A mathematics major and University Scholar, Bouck is the recipient of the 2018 National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship (NSF GRFP).
Bouck was selected as one of 2,000 NSF Research Fellows from a pool of 12,000 applicants. This fellowship is the most prestigious graduate fellowship awarded by the NSF. Bouck’s funding includes an annual $34,000 stipend which covers research materials and living expenses, including $12,000 to cover education expenses at his graduate school of choice. This financial support makes graduate school research accessible for Bouck, enabling him to pursue a career as a mathematician.
In his first year as a graduate student, Bouck aims to focus his research on partial differential equations and numerical analysis. Originally interested in the social sciences, the Goldwater Scholarship Honorable Mention says he “came to love math because behind every model or proof, there is a relatively simple and clear idea.”
A computer science minor, Bouck complements his program of study with his interest in computers. NSF GRFP funding will allow Bouck to investigate how numerical analysis helps STEM professionals to approximate solutions to computer modeling.
As an NSF Research Fellow, Bouck will have access to career development opportunities. Connecting with mathematicians and computer scientists will expand his professional network and job prospects.
Honors College faculty, including Prof. Granfield, supported Bouck throughout his application process. Prof. Granfield, who now works full time in the Mathematics department, proofread his personal statements and reviewed his research proposals. “I was impressed with how he carried himself. We were delighted to support him throughout his application processes,” explains Prof. Granfield.
“I am so grateful for the help and support that the Honors College has given me,” says Bouck, who is one step closer to realizing his dream of working in a national lab.
Original reporting by Jimmy O'hara