Teen Math Whiz to Receive a Master’s Degree Before Even Finishing High School
By Ryan General
May 19, 2017
A 17-year-old high school senior will be receiving her Master’s degree even before she gets her high school diploma a month from now.
Stephanie Mui will receive her Master of Science degree in mathematics at George Mason University on Saturday, making her the university’s youngest graduate. Even more impressive is the fact that Mui has already earned her Associate of Science degree and her Bachelor of Science degree as well.
The teenager from Fairfax was only in fourth grade when she passed the College Board’s calculus exam. She first began taking college courses at Northern Virginia Community College after she completed fifth grade. Mui reportedly earned her Associate’s degree by age 13 and, by 16, she already earned her BS in mathematics from George Mason last year while simultaneously attending Oakton High School.
After her high school and university graduation, Mui will be working on her Ph.D. at the NYU.
Mui told FOX 5 News Morning that getting an early start contributed to her success. She already knew she loved math when she was still in first grade.
Her early interests were heavily cultivated at home, where her father usually helped her study. Instead of labeling herself as a genius, she prefers to be recognized for working hard.
“I definitely do not consider myself a genius. You know, I haven’t done anything super huge yet,” Mui said.
While her schedule may seem overwhelmingly hectic, she revealed that she is still able to engage in “normal” teenage activities.
While her schedule may seem overwhelmingly hectic, she revealed that she is still able to engage in “normal” teenage activities.
“I try my best to always have some free time on the weekend, whenever, to just keep in touch with all my friends,” Mui was quoted as saying.
However, one may wonder if Mui’s parents, who are both engineers, will influence her career choice. To that, Mui said:
However, one may wonder if Mui’s parents, who are both engineers, will influence her career choice. To that, Mui said:
“I’d like to do something involving research whether it’s in industry or academia. I don’t really know. It depends on what opportunities are out there after I graduate from NYU.”
Share this Article
Share this Article
