My current interests are in algebraic geometry, specifically in moduli problems, mirror symmetry, and blow-ups of Fano varieties; I am advised by Hsian-Hua Tseng. I am also currently working on a project with a research group which formed at AGNES 2022. My previous work was in (elementary and algebraic) topology and computational biophysics.
I am a fourth year PhD student in the Department of Mathematics at Ohio State University studying pure mathematics. I am passionate about fostering equity and inclusion in mathematical spaces, and much of my non-academic work is focused on this goal. I am the founder and current organizer of the OSU Cyle program, a mentoring program for undergraduate students from underrepresented backgrounds. When I'm not reading or thinking about math, you can find me crocheting, baking, or playing with my two sweet kitties.
I am spending most of my fall semester in Ohio.
I like to turn math into art! I use a lot of crochet to make surfaces which are topologically and/or geometrically interesting. You can see anything I may currently be working on on my instagram.
I guess I could put my honors thesis here, but no one wants to read that. The title made it clear there would be nothing here; why did you click this section?
I believe in taking a proactive role in teaching by providing motivation and encouragement to students. I think that students learn best through genuine passion and individual exploration. For students outside of theoretical mathematics, I emphasize building a strong intuition and relating the subject to their fields rather than on my own interest in the topic. In my classes, I encourage students to interact with each other as much as possible both in and out of class time. I have been described by students as both a cupcake and a cinnamon roll.
I am extremely passionate about mentoring, particularly to members from underrepresented groups. My academic path was very much shaped by my own mentors, Dr. David Dotson, who guided and taught me from the time that I was in high school until I was nearly finished with undergrad, and Dr. David Polletta, who encouraged my love for mathematics and who, having gone to OSU for undergrad and ASU for grad school, could be considered my dual.
I organize the OSU Cycle mentoring program with Nick Geis, Dr. John Johnson, Will Newman, and Dr. Dan Thompson. I currently chair the committee and am a mentor in the program. I also sit on the OSU Polaris committee in the Department of Physics.
Join the OSU Cycle program to get involved in research with graduate students at OSU!
Students who are interested in taking their math education further should consider joining the OSU math honors program. Get involved with sharing math with the general public or just enjoy some free events with Buckeye Aha! Math Moments (BAMM). Students with a passion for diversity in mathematics or who are themselves from underrepresented groups should consider taking the Hidden Figures course. OSU also has a chapter of the Association for Women in Mathematics (AWM) which hosts regular tea times in the department. The Directed Reading Program (DRP) offers a mentoring relationship for students wishing to pursue more advanced texts. Everyone should join the undergraduate math club, Radical Pi. Search for an REU on the NSF website.
Cauchy was rescued from falling off a ledge as a five week old kitten in July 2018. He is named after the Cauchy horizon since he is entirely black, and his full name is Cauchy Purrizon.
Feel free to email me at kaceyaurum@gmail.com (or my OSU email address aurum.1@osu.edu) or to find me in my office MA 254. My office hours for students are Thursdays 4:00-6:00 PM in the MSLC. Per university policy, if you are my student, please DO NOT use anything but OSU email addresses if you intend to discuss course material or grading.
Calabi is an nine year old caliby (calico tabby) kitty adopted from Pets Without Parents in July 2022. Her full name is Calabi Myau, but she responds best to "Callie" or "pretty girl".