College Matters. Alma Matters.

Craig Chu on CalTech: Applied Mathematics, SURF and Ditch Day.

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Episode summary introduction: Craig loved math and science while he was in high school in Texas. Math came easily to him. He says it just flowed and he could read it like a book. He wanted to grow up and create the next big thing or do game changing research.

Craig Chu is a graduate of CalTech with a Bachelor’s degree in Applied and Computational Mathematics.

In particular, we discuss the following with him:

  • On choosing CalTech
  • Majoring in Applied and Computational Mathematics
  • House System & Activities
  • On being an Actuary
  • Advice to Aspirants

    • Topics discussed in this episode:

    • Introduction to Craig Chu, CalTech [0:54]
    • Hi Fives - Podcast Highlights [1:43]
    • CalTech - Overall Experience [4:13]
    • Why CalTech? [5:36]
    • High School Interests [7:23]
    • Transition to CalTech [8:57]
    • Smart, Talented Classmates [11:23]
    • “Great” Professors [14:57]
    • The House System [16:29]
    • Campus Activities [17:36]
    • Summers [20:07]
    • Applied Math Major [22:45]
    • So, What is Actuary? [24:44]
    • CalTech’s Impact [25:38]
    • CalTech Redo [29:31]
    • Advice to Aspirants [32:49]
    • Appreciating Humanities [35:17]
    • Memories - “Ditch Day” [38:18]

      • Our Guest: Craig Chu is a graduate of CalTech with a Bachelor’s degree in Applied and Computational Mathematics.

      Memorable Quote: “I think as I've grown older, I've grown to have a much deeper appreciation for the humanities.” Craig Chu.

      Episode Transcript: Please visit Episode’s Transcript.

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        College Matters. Alma Matters.By Venkat Raman
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