Mathematics Alumni Profiles
Elizabeth (Buechler) Flamion
Class of 2008
Beth Flamion is certain that the numerous classroom and teaching experiences she had at the University of Evansville prepared her well for her chosen career. "Starting during my freshman year in my education classes, I was either observing a classroom or interacting with students. I know that these experiences are why my school administrators tell me I am teaching at a level beyond most beginning teachers."
Choosing to teach math at the junior high and high school levels was a relatively easy decision for Beth. "Teaching is a way for me to share my enjoyment of mathematics while being a positive influence on the future of our country. Math is multifaceted, and to me, it is one big puzzle to figure out."
In addition to her internships and student teaching, Beth had the opportunity to teach students in Jamaica, tutor blind students, and instruct an entire course for one of UE's blind students. "Teaching abroad and working with students with visual disabilities were additional ways for me to share my love of math. UE's math professors have rigorous standards, and they challenged me to achieve a high level of success in my content area. They gave me a hunger to understand and teach mathematical concepts."
Casey Sanders
Class of 2005
Casey Sanders used his degree in actuarial science from the University of Evansville to obtain a position with Humana, where he uses the knowledge he gained to analyze Medicare pricing. "Actuaries are required to endure a rigorous examination process in order to achieve fellowship with the Society of Actuaries. Many of the math classes I took at UE helped me along the way, particularly those that catered to specific actuarial exams."
Casey's UE professors not only ensured that he took the right courses, but they also introduced him to the profession. "Dr. Dwyer was very helpful in pointing me in the direction of actuarial science. He looked at my skill set and provided career options that fit me. Now, I'm hoping to broaden my actuarial expertise by gaining experience in multiple actuarial applications including health ratemaking, statutory reserving, and long-term care pricing."
Amanda Watkins
Class of 2008
As a freshman at UE, Amanda Watkins never dreamed that one day she would be on the path to earning a PhD in mathematics. "I started out not certain what I wanted to do. After taking a few math classes, I was strongly encouraged to consider math as a major. Now, I'm a second-year student in a PhD math program at the University of Iowa."
Amanda felt very prepared for her first year of graduate studies due to her UE course work. "After becoming a math major, I was guided to classes that would look good to graduate schools, and within the area of math I chose pre-doctoral mathematics — a specialized degree that prepares students for graduate school."
Participating in a research experience for undergraduates (REU), attending conferences, and participating in math competitions introduced Amanda to the math community. "My REU gave me a taste for research — a big part of my graduate school studies and career. I was also able to meet fellow students and professors with whom I am still in contact, and these experiences influenced my graduate school decision. I know I would not be where I am today without the guidance I received from my UE professors."
