Math-Science
Overview
The building blocks of the world Through rigorous, university-level coursework in mathematics, the physical sciences, life sciences, computer science, and engineering, ASFA’s math and science program develops students’ analytical and creative problem solving skills. Nurturing student talent to create leaders and innovators is a cornerstone of the math and science program.
Infused with inquiry and exploration Alongside their arts-focused peers, math and science students learn to be creative and curious as they develop their talents in problem solving and scientific inquiry. Rather than creating brand new artworks as their peers might, math and science students leverage these skills to innovate and to see existing structures in new lights and from different angles. Coursework encourages students to incorporate diverse ways of thinking and flourish as lifelong learners.
Student achievement Competitions are to ASFA’s math and science students as performance is to our arts colleagues. Our teams consistently place highly in both local and national STEM competitions.
Imaginative investigations Research is the culmination of ASFA’s advanced math and science curriculum. Students learn from experience, beginning by forming a hypothesis and completing a thorough experiment design, then producing comprehensive, analytical reports of their findings. Students develop a research question in mathematics, science, or computer science during their junior year, and explore that question via an independent research project over the course of their senior year. Many have the opportunity to conduct independent research and experimentation at nearby University labs and organizations, receiving guidance and mentorship from expert practitioners. All math and science students enter their research projects in local and national Science & Engineering Fairs, and many qualify for spots in the Regeneron International Science & Engineering Fair.
Math-Science News
Meet the Faculty
Hungsin Chin, Ed.S., Math-Science Department Supervisory Chair is a National Board Trainer and holds a National Board Certification in Adolescent and You Math and a Montessori Certification. She previously taught in Kuwait and with Jefferson County Schools, and has a bachelor's in math with a minor in statistics, a master's in secondary math education, and an Ed.S. in math education.
Dr. Cecil Flournoy, graduated from Alabama A&M University with a B.S. in mathematics and a minor in computer science. Afterward, he attended graduate school at the University of Iowa where he received an M.S. and Ph.D. in pure mathematics.
David Kwong, previously was a mechanical engineer, and now is in his sixth year with the ASFA Math-Science Department. He coaches the ASFA FIRST Robotics and Geometry math teams, coordinates the ASFA Math Tournament, and co-sponsors the ASFA Mu Alpha Theta chapter. He has a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from University of Alabama, and a Master of Arts in Secondary Education from University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Hui Li has a Ph.D. degree in Physical Chemistry from the University of Maryland at College Park. She has taught research methods, radiative transfer, matrix and vector analysis, and data visualization in the Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics Department at the University of Alabama. She started teaching at ASFA in 2023.
Vincy Lugemwa, has taught mathematics and Advanced Chemistry in Uganda, Kenya, Zimbabwe, and in the U.S. She has been recognized twice as a Presidential Scholar teacher of Alabama. She graduated from Makerere University with a Bachelor of Science in mathematics and chemistry and has a Post Graduate Diploma in Education. She also has a Master of Arts in Mathematics from Bowling Green State University.
Elizabeth Overton has both a Bachelor and a Master of Science in Traditional Mathematics. After graduating with her bachelor's degree, she taught 7th grade in Jefferson County for 2 years before pursuing her master's. Upon graduating, she received a position at ASFA in the Math/Science department and hasn't looked back since! Elizabeth has a passion for math education and currently teaches Honors Pre-Algebra and Honors Algebra II with Trigonometry. She finds the beauty and joy of mathematics in nature and puzzles ranging from Sudoku to complex unsolved mathematical theorems.
Richa Templin, has a master’s degree in computer science and a master’s degree in secondary education from the University of Alabama at Birmingham where she was given the Outstanding Student Award from the School of Education. She is passionate about promoting girls in STEM and has been involved with Girls Engaged in Math & Science and the Association of Computing Machinery’s Council on Women in Computing.
Dr. Walter Uhoya, has an advanced physics degree and has taught various math-science courses and coached students at ASFA since 2015 including AP Physics, Honors Physical Sciences, National Science Bowl, Science Olympiad, Physics Bowl, and Physics Olympiad.
Dreama White, Dreama White has a Master of Science in Medical Sciences with a focus on Neurobiology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham where she spent 15+ years gaining research experience in various labs across UAB’s campus, including Behavioral Neuroscience, Physiology & Biophysics, Neurobiology, and Immunology. She coaches ASFA’s Division C Science Olympiad team.
Mary Williams, Mary Williams holds a B.S. in Chemistry with minors in Biology and Psychology, and a Ph.D. in Pharmacology with an emphasis in neuroscience.
Curriculum
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Major classes are double-period in length for the full year and are taught at an honors level.
- 7th grade: Explorations in Pre-Algebra & Investigative Science 7
- 8th grade: Honors Algebra I & Investigative Science 8
- 9th grade: Honors Geometry & Honors Biology
- 10th grade: Honors Algebra II, Honors Trigonometry, AP Biology or AP Chemistry
- 11th grade: AP Calculus BC & AP Biology or AP Chemistry or AP Physics C – Mechanics
- 12th grade: Linear Algebra/Differential Equations/Special Topics in Math Modeling or AP Biology or AP Chemistry or AP Physics C – Mechanics
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Requirements for Graduation
- Explorations in Computer Science (0.5 credit)
- Introduction to Programming Using Python (0.5 credit)
- AP Computer Science Principles (1 credit)
- AP Statistics (1 credit)
- Research Fundamentals (1 credit)
- Research & Inquiry (1 credit)
- Senior Research Project (1 credit) or AP Seminar (1 credit)
- Fine Arts Electives (1.5 credit)
- 12th grade:
- Compete in the Central Alabama Regional Science & Engineering Fair (CARSEF)
- Participation in the annual Math & Science Senior Research Symposium
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Electives
AP Physics C – Electricity & Magnetism, AP Computer Science A, AP Seminar, AP Environmental Science, AP Psychology, Applied Mathematics, Art of Problem Solving, Math Team, Science Team, Science Olympiad, Introduction to Neuroscience, Anatomy & Physiology, Introduction to Engineering, Make-It with Computing, Vex IQ Robotics, Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Introduction to Cybersecurity
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Co-Curricular Activities
- MATHCOUNTS, Math Teams, Mu Alpha Theta National Convention, American Mathematics Competition, American Invitational Mathematics Exam, M3 Challenge, Modeling the Future Challenge
- Science Olympiad, Science Bowl, Physics Bowl, Bio Olympiad
- CARSEF, Alabama Junior Academy of Science, Gorgas Scholarship, Alabama Science & Engineering Fair, Regeneron ISEF, NJSHS
- Alabama Robotics, Code Quest, Girls Who Code, High School Programming Contest, Capture the Flag, Girls in Engineering, Mathematics, & Science, VEX IQ Robotics
- FIRST Robotics
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Advanced Core Course
- AP United States History, AP Macroeconomics, AP United States Government
- AP Spanish, AP French, AP Latin
REQUIRED SEQUENCE IN MATHEMATICS:
- Explorations in Pre-Algebra (Grade 7)
- Honors Algebra I (Grade 8)
- Honors Geometry (Grade 9)
- Honors Algebra II/Trigonometry (Grade 10)
- AP Statistics (Grade 11)
- AP Calculus AB & BC (Grade 11 or 12)
- Linear Algebra (Grade 12)
- Differential Equations/Math Modeling (Grade 12)
Explorations in Pre-Algebra (Grade 7)
The class is designed to prepare students for the explorations of the various math concepts designed for this course. The work emphasizes employing multiple strategies and justifying answers through clear, written and verbal communication. The course includes very little repetition or extended practice on individual concepts and instead focuses on depth of understanding. Students’ problem-solving skills will be strengthened, as well as their ability to manipulate rational numbers and variable expressions. Additionally, students will explore real world applications to give relevance to the skills that students are developing. This course will mainly be project and problem-based with ample time dedicated to students for exploring a concept and problem-solving an existing problem/question/situation/scenario. (2 credits)
Honors Algebra I (Grade 8)
The class is a rigorous study of the fundamental structure of the real number system. Throughout, the course gives attention to algebraic properties and operations. Students learn to use mathematics effectively through a variety of problems, in questioning, and in open-ended problem-solving. Students see how mathematical ideas fit into a larger context and use experiments that include the use of higher-order thinking skills in daily assignments. Students use calculators, graphing calculators, and computers. This course thoroughly integrates and makes connections to other areas of mathematics, to other disciplines, and to the real world. (2 credits)
Honors Geometry (Grade 9)
This class develops a student’s ability to reason correctly, to try new ideas and to 35 solve problems. This course emphasizes the application of geometric ideas to natural and physical phenomena. It develops skills in visualization and pictorial representation of concepts. Honors Geometry integrates coordinate and transformational views of geometry with the traditional synthetic approach. Such integration enables students to see the unity in mathematics while solidifying algebraic skills. (2 credits)
Honors Algebra II/Trigonometry (Grade 10)
This class is a study of variables, equations, and graphs within the context of data analysis. To use linear and nonlinear algebraic equations, students analyze real-life data and then construct mathematical models that best fit the data. Students use computers and graphing calculators to create meaningful visual representations of algebraic concepts. To improve critical thinking, students explain, verify, justify, and interpret routine and non-routine problems individually or in groups. Students complete assignments promptly, neatly, and in a required format. (2 credits)
AP Statistics (Grade 11)
This class uses a calculus-based approach to examine and apply the concepts of probability, descriptive statistics, and inferential statistics. The class focuses on student-collected data and the use of exploratory data analysis to examine the data. Students are prepared to take the AP Statistics Examination. (1 credit)
AP Calculus AB & BC (Grade 11 or 12)
This class prepares students to take the Advanced Placement Calculus BC Examination, although the exam is not required. The course uses a “reform” approach. This approach gives meaning to the symbols and develops students’ insight while illuminating questions in the physical sciences, engineering, and the social and biological sciences. Each topic is covered numerically, graphically, and algebraically. (2 credits)
Linear Algebra (Grade 12)
This is a college-level semester-long mathematics course for students of engineering, science, and mathematics. This course is a study of linear systems of equations, vector spaces, and linear transformations. Solving systems of linear equations is a basic tool of many mathematical procedures used for solving problems in science and engineering. The class helps students develop abstract and critical reasoning by studying logical proofs and the axiomatic method. (1 credit)
Differential Equations/Math Modeling (Grade 12)
This is a college-level, semester-long mathematics course that will introduce students to modeling the real world in terms of differential equations. The laws of nature are expressed as differential equations. Many properties of differential equations have been understood mathematically, and they have a history of being successfully applied to important problems in all areas of science and engineering. This course will introduce primarily linear, first-order, and second-order differential equations. Solution techniques for separable equations and homogeneous and inhomogeneous equations, as well as a range of modeling-based applications arising in the context of engineering, physics, and chemistry, will be presented. The application of Laplace transforms to differential equations, systems of linear differential equations, linearization of nonlinear systems, and phase plane methods will be covered. Fourier series, a useful tool in signal processing, will also be introduced. (1 credit)
REQUIRED SEQUENCE IN SCIENCE:
- Investigative Science 7 (Grade 7)
- Investigative Science 8 (Grade 8)
- Honors Biology (Grade 9)
- AP Chemistry (Grade 10 or 11 or 12)
- AP Biology (Grade 10 or 11 or 12)
- AP Physics C (Grade 11 or 12)
Investigative Science 7 (Grade 7)
This class is focused on life science. The curriculum developed by OpenSciEd will be utilized. OpenSciEd is an organization that produces high-quality instructional materials that promote deep understanding and active learning. You will have the opportunity to explore a variety of interesting phenomena as you lay a solid foundation for the science courses that you will take in the future. (2 credits)
Investigative Science 8 (Grade 8)
This is a science course to enable students to develop a conceptual understanding of fundamental science concepts and to develop analytical skills, problem- solving skills, computational skills, and research/experimental skills. Students will participate in rigorous science units based on the NGSS-aligned standard for their grade levels & performance expectations for each standard. We are adopting a new curriculum called OpenSciEd. OpenSciEd’s world-class, Next Generation Science Standards-aligned instructional materials are designed for how students learn science best. The curriculum is designed to help students learn through an iterative process building on new understanding and knowledge; discover, investigate, and construct understanding with their peers; and develop their ability to solve problems, ask questions, interpret data, and argue from evidence. (2 credits)
Honors Biology (Grade 9)
This is designed as a pre-AP Biology course, which is a prerequisite for AP Biology. The course will introduce the student to scientific inquiry through studying cellular processes, bioenergetics, genetics, ecology and biodiversity. This course provides students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze those interrelationships, to evaluate the risks associated when problems arise, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. Students will be taught both the content and the skills that they need to succeed in science classes in the future. (2 credits)
AP Chemistry (Grade 10 or 11 or 12)
This course explores the composition, structure, and properties of substances and the transformations that they undergo. Students use factual knowledge as the basis for the 36 creative approaches to solving problems, using critical thinking, trial and error, intuition, and (above all) patience. The class is taught in a modified lecture style that allows for constant student-teacher and student-student interaction. Laboratory is an integral part of the course, and special emphasis is placed on both oral and written expression of scientific concepts. The course prepares students for the Advanced Placement (AP) Chemistry exam. Students receive training for outreach in chemistry related topics. (2 credits)
AP Biology (Grade 10 or 11 or 12)
The course is designed to be the equivalent of a college introductory biology course, covering three general areas: Molecules and Cells, Heredity and Evolution, and Organisms and Populations. The course’s two main goals are for students to develop a conceptual framework for modern biology and gain an appreciation of science as a process. Primary emphasis is placed on developing an understanding of concepts rather than on memorizing terms and technical details, with attention to eight recurring themes: Science as a Process; Evolution; Energy Transfer; Continuity and Change; Relationship of Structure to Function; Regulation; Interdependence in Nature; Science, Technology, and Society. The course prepares students for the Advanced Placement (AP) Biology exam. (2 credits)
AP Physics C (Grade 11 or 12)
This is the equivalent of a college physics course usually taken by physics and engineering majors during their first or second year, providing an extensive introduction to fundamental concepts of physics in topics including Newtonian mechanics, thermodynamics, modern or “quantum” mechanics, optics, and electricity and magnetism. The course prepares students for the college physics sequence and the Advanced Placement (AP) Physics C exam (Mechanics or E&M), with an emphasis on concepts, problem-solving, and sound mathematical techniques. It also prepares students for any entry-level, calculus-based college physics course. (2 credits)
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Exploration in Computer Science (Grade 7)
- Introduction to Programming Using Python (Grade 8)
- AP Computer Science Principles (Grade 9 & new students entering Grades 10 and beyond)
- Fundamentals of Research (Grade 9 & new students entering Grade 10 and beyond)
- Research & Inquiry (Grade 11)
- Senior Independent Research Project (Grade 12)
Exploration in Computer Science (Grade 7)
This is an introductory course in computer science and programming, suitable for students in middle school. In this course, students will discover how computers work and why computing technology works as it does. They will also learn game designing in block coding and introduction to web designing using basic HTML and CSS. (0.5 credit)
Introduction to Programming Using Python (Grade 8)
This is a course designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of programming using Python. Students will learn key programming concepts such as variables, data types, control flow, loops, functions, object-oriented programming, and more. By the end of the course, students will have a strong foundation in Python and will be able to develop simple programs and projects. (0.5 credit)
AP Computer Science Principles (Grade 9 & new students entering Grades 10 and beyond)
This course is designed to introduce students to the central ideas of computing and computer science, to instill ideas and practices of computational thinking, and to have students engage in activities that show how computing and computer science change the world. The course is challenging and rich in computational content, includes computational and critical thinking and skills, and engages students in the creative aspects of the field. Through both its content and pedagogy, this course aims to appeal to a broad audience. The key concepts and related content are organized around seven big ideas involving six computational thinking processes. In this course, each of the big ideas (Creativity, Abstraction, Data and Information, Algorithms, Programming, the Internet, Global Impact) is taught in conjunction with one or more of computational thinking practices (Connecting Computing, Creating Computational Artifacts, Abstracting, Analyzing Problems and Artifacts, Communicating, Collaborating). Essential questions that students will explore are posed for each of the big ideas. These ideas connect students to a curriculum scope that includes programming but is not programming focused. Additionally, students will have opportunities to build their writing skills through portfolios, journals, and technical writing. Weekly journal entries reflecting on learning and explaining the technical aspects of what has been learned are required for each student. Prerequisite: MS students – completion of Algebra I; non-MS students – completion of Algebra II. (1 credit)
Fundamentals of Research (Grade 9 & new students entering Grade 10 and beyond)
The class is designed as an introduction to the fundamentals of scientific research. Students will explore, create, and model processes involved in conducting a scientific investigation. In addition, students will design and complete an independent research project for the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) regional qualifier (CARSEF) as well as develop skills necessary to successfully complete the Senior Research graduation requirement. The course design emphasizes the fundamentals of scientific research where students will explore, create, and model the processes needed for conducting a scientific investigation. Units of instruction will center on developing the main elements of a scientific report: Introduction, Methods, Results, Discussion, and Conclusion. (1 credit)
Research & Inquiry (Grade 11)
This is a course preparing students to successfully design and complete an independent research project for the senior research symposium culminating at the end of the senior year. This includes developing time management skills, oral and visual presentation skills, student-centered learning approaches, and critical thinking skills needed to review and constructively criticize the work of peers and professionals in the area of research. This course design emphasizes the fundamentals of scientific research, where students will explore, create, and model the processes needed for conducting a scientific investigation. Topics covered will include but are not limited to ethics in research, experimental design, methods of data collection, data analysis (use of statistics for evidence/reliability), literature review and critique of published work, writing a conclusion, citing and listing resources, and the peer review process. (1 credit)
Senior Independent Research Project (Grade 12)
The research experience usually begins during a student’s junior year. The student is required to develop a research question in an area of interest: mathematics, science, or computer science. There are three components to the research project:
- The practicum research experience in a laboratory
- The written research paper
- An oral presentation
The goal of this experience is to provide seniors with hands-on research experience and a comprehensive scientific project. (1 credit)
Electives in Mathematics:
Note: The list below is not meant to be complete. The faculty designs and teaches new electives each year to add to the list.
Electives in Science:
Note: The list below is not meant to be complete. The faculty designs and teaches new electives each year to add to this list. During any given school year, some of these electives are offered.
- AP Environmental Science
- AP Psychology (Grade 11 or 12)
- Human Anatomy & Physiology
- Introduction to Neuroscience
AP Environmental Science
This course is an interdisciplinary course that encompasses natural sciences, 38 applied environmental science, and social science. APES offers students a chance to understand both basic ecology and modern environmental issues. APES stresses rigorous scientific principles, inquiry-based labs, quantitative analysis, and articulation of student understanding through writing. This year-long course lasts for 45 minutes each day, and 3 hours of homework per week is expected. Prerequisite: completion of Biology, Chemistry, and Algebra II, unless approved by instructor. (1 credit)
AP Psychology (Grade 11 or 12)
The course is designed to introduce students to the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Students are exposed to the psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology. They also learn about the ethics and methods psychologists use in their science and practice. (1 credit)
Human Anatomy & Physiology
This upper-level science course is designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of how the organ systems within the human body work together to maintain homeostasis and how a failure in homeostasis results in a disease or health issue. The course is designed with a hands-on focus and includes creative assessments that cultivate students’ critical thinking, research, and communication skills – both orally in class discussions as well as in written forms. Each unit includes laboratory work in the form of traditional labs and/or simulation activities, the study of specimens, and research-based projects. Students should be prepared to conduct research, work in small groups as well as independently, write scientifically, and communicate their understanding in a variety of methods. Day-to-day instruction methods include teacher-lead instruction, group work, individual student work, project-based learning, and lab exercises. Students can expect to start each day with a bell ringer/warmup assignment followed by learning activities and lectures. Students will sometimes work independently from the teacher to achieve the level of student autonomy expected of upperclassmen students. Classes are structured to utilize every minute for learning and assessing the students’ understanding. Real-world application is a daily objective. Higher-level thinking will be incorporated into each lesson as well as the use of technology, when applicable, to increase student achievement. Students are expected to participate in all activities and actively engage and ask questions during teacher-led lectures. Students are also expected to review and study the content covered in class outside of school daily. (0.5 credit)
Introduction to Neuroscience
Electives in Computer Science:
Note: The list of courses below is not meant to be complete. During any given school year, some of these electives are offered.
- AP Computer Science A (Grade 11 or 12)
- Introduction to Cybersecurity (Grades 10-12)
- Introduction to Artificial Intelligence & Machine Language
- Make-It with Computing
AP Computer Science A (Grade 11 or 12)
This is a year-long course intended as a college-prep course for students planning to study computer science or other technical fields. However, this course is suitable for all students with an interest in computer programming. Even some non-technical fields require students to be familiar with basic computer programming. Since programming is the main component of computer science, a large portion of this course will be devoted to the design and implementation of computer programs to solve a given problem. In addition to understanding computer programming in general, and the Java language in particular, students will gain a clear understanding of the process of analyzing problems, proposing and evaluating solutions, and implementing those solutions that are appropriate to program. Students will leave this class with the ability to solve new problems and adapt to new programming languages and methodologies that they will encounter in future school and job-related assignments. This course emphasizes programming methodology, procedural abstraction, and the in-depth study of standard algorithms and data structures. Students will also study the history of computing and the basic hardware and software components of computer systems, as well as the ethical and responsible use of these systems. Prerequisites: AP Computer Science Principles and permission of instructor. (1 credit)
Introduction to Cybersecurity (Grades 10-12)
This one semester long course will help students learn various topics related to Cybersecurity. The topics covered include Ethics and security, classic and modern cryptography, malicious software, and physical and web security. This is an elective course for math and science students, and prior knowledge of coding is required. Prerequisite: AP Computer Science Principles. (0.5 credit)
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence & Machine Language
In this one-semester course, students will be introduced to the breadth of the artificial intelligence field through the development of projects employing varied AI approaches and machine learning algorithms. We will also be discussing societal and ethical issues involving AI. The course expects students to understand the fundamentals of programming. Prerequisite: AP Computer Science Principles. (0.5 credit)
Make-It with Computing
This is an elective course for any student who is interested in learning the creative side of Computer Science. The goal is to introduce them to the creative application of computer science by keeping the topics fun and engaging. This will be a project-based course where students will be working with partners or in groups. (0.5 credit)
Electives in Engineering:
Note: The list of courses below is not meant to be complete. During any given school year, some of these electives are offered.
Introduction to Engineering I (Grade 9-12)
This is a high school level one-semester course designed for students who are interested in engineering. The main focus of this course is to provide exposure to various fields of engineering (mechanical, civil, aerospace, and electrical) as well as design process, teamwork, communication, and technical documentation through project-based learning. In addition, students will use both 3D modeling and circuit design software to help them design solutions to proposed problems. (0.5 credit)
Introduction to Engineering II (Grade 9-12)
This is a high school level one-semester course in which students work in teams to develop a unique solution to a real-world problem. Students will apply the skills accumulated in Introduction to Engineering I as well as potentially all of their previous courses. Student teams will submit frequently written documentation of their project progress and will give formal presentations of their work at both the midterm and end of the semester. (0.5 credit)
Accomplishments
Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair Finalists
Year
Finalists
2025
Ashu Anand, Harinni Chakilam, Sophia Guo
2024
Abhai Anand, Ashu Anand, Greeshma Vinoy
2023
Daniel Zhao, Joscelyn Peterson
Math-Science News
WHAT DO MATH-SCIENCE ALUMNI DO?
- Keith Gipson: Yale University School of Medicine MD/Ph.D. in neuroscience, founder of Charter Anesthesiology and Chair of Anesthesiology at Bristol Hospital
- Azalea Vo: Harvard University-Computer Science; Software Development Engineer at Amazon
- Jorge Nunez: Ph.D. in Geological Sciences; AZ State University; Senior Planetary Scientist & Astrobiologist in the Space Exploration Sector at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory
- Komal Shah: J.D. – The George Washington University Law School; Associate at Covington & Burling LLP
- Pratik Talati: MD, Ph.D. – Vanderbilt University School of Medicine; Neurosurgeon-Scientist & Clinical Instructor at the University of Pennsylvania Health System
- Mohammad Abbasi: MD-Harvard Medical School; Cardiologist, Cardiac Electrophysiologist at the Cleveland Clinic
- Turner Atwood: Computer Software Engineering – Auburn University; Software Engineer at Google
- Lakshmi Raju: Ph.D.-Georgia Institute of Technology; Director of ECE Student Engagement & Well-Being in the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering – Georgia Institute of Technology
- Karan H. Jani: MD-Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons; Chief Diagnostic Radiology Resident at the Mallinckrodt Institute of Rediology at Washington University Medicine
- Hriday Bhambhvani: MD-Stanford University School of Medicine; Urology Resident Physician at Weill Cornell, New York
Competitions/Events
Math Competitions & Events
- Various math tournaments at the different middle & high schools in Alabama
- Rockdale Math Tournament - Conyers, GA
- The James S. Rickards Fall Invitational - Tallahassee, FL
- UAB Math Talent Search
- MATHCOUNTS
- Alabama State Written
- Alabama State Ciphering
- American Mathematics Competition
- American Invitational Mathematics Exam
- Mu Alpha Theta National Convention
- MathWorks Math Modeling (M3) Challenge
- Modeling the Future Challenge
Science Competitions & Events
- Alabama Middle & High School Science Bowl
- Central Alabama Regional Science Olympiad
- High School Physics Contest
- F=MA USA Physics Olympiad Exam
- Biology Olympiad
Research Competitions & Events
- Central Alabama Regional Science & Engineering Fair
- Alabama Science & Engineering Fair
- Regeneron International Science & Engineering Fair
- Regeneron Science Talent Search
- Alabama Junior Academy of Science
- Gorgas Scholarship Competition
- National Junior Science & Humanities Symposium
Computer Science Competitions & Events
- Alabama Robotics
- Code Quest - Huntsville
- Girls Who Code
- High School Programming Contest
- University of Alabama Crimson Defense (Capture the Flag)
- North American Computational Linguistics Olympiad
- Girls in Engineering, Mathematics and Science (GEMS)
Robotics Competitions & Events
- FIRST Robotics
- VEX IQ Robotics
Research
From the moment you step into the ASFA Math-Science Department students are immersed in a culture of research, investigation, and innovation.
All math-science students work with a professional mentor in their field to execute a university-level research project. Students regularly work with professors and researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and the University of Alabama. The research experience usually begins during a student’s junior year. The student is required to develop a research question in an area of interest: mathematics, science, or computer science. There are three components to the research project:
- The practicum research experience in a laboratory
- The written research paper
- An oral presentation
The goal is to provide seniors with hands-on research experience and a comprehensive scientific project that many students continue into their collegiate careers.
Gallery
Apply!
Application
- The general application is done through an online platform.
- Submit the general application before submitting any department-specific materials.
- The parent questionnaire is an opportunity to provide important information on your student.
- The two student essays are an opportunity for the student to highlight their personality and passion for their specialty.
- A $25 application fee must be submitted with the application (if this cost is prohibitive contact Katie Gordon.)
- Applications open at the beginning of November.