“Mathematics, to me is . . .a highly precise and organized way of thinking about abstract concepts, for example, numbers, sets, or algebraic structures. However, we can and often do leave the world of abstraction to apply our way of thinking to powerfully analyze the real world. On the other hand, the real world is continually inspiring us to develop new mathematics.”
Elaine's Biography
Dr. Elaine Beltaos is an associate professor of mathematics at Grant MacEwan University. Elaine earned her doctorate in 2009 from the University of Alberta, and joined MacEwan that same year. She specializes in algebra and is especially interested in the applications of algebra to mathematical physics.
I learned how to persevere when given a difficult problem and to embrace challenges.
Sharing the mathematics that I love with students.
Play piano, sing, bake, attend concerts, dance, spend time with family and friends.
I have had mentors, and they have played an important role in coaching me to where I am today.
When I was younger, I had many interests and imagined myself doing many things. One of them was being a mathematician, and as time went on, mathematics won out over my other interests, which have now become hobbies.
Do what you love and be yourself. Meet a lot of people in your chosen field and learn from those you consider to be role models. Always behave in a professional and collegial manner and appreciate those who support you. At a certain time in your career, you will become ready to mentor others, so take these opportunities – they are very rewarding. Your success is based at least as much on your attitude as on your achievements. Finally, remember that just because you may not look like everyone else at a conference or in your classroom, it doesn’t mean you don’t belong there.
