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STUDENT PROFILE: Somin Virmani
STUDENT PROFILE
by SOMIN VIRMANI
My name is Somin Virmani, and I am a current senior at Phillips Academy. I grew up taking classes at the Russian School of Math in Andover up until the eighth grade, after which I took a precalculus summer course.
My time spent at RSM has helped forge my critical thinking skills, empowering me for my future. By learning algebra, precalculus, and geometry through RSM's curriculum, I began developing my problem solving skills. I fondly remember moments in my Wednesday evening geometry class when all the students in the class would pitch potential solutions to the seemingly impossible problem on the board. I can still feel
the warm energy in the classroom, bewildered smiles on all our faces. Together (and with a few clues from our teacher) we would finally identify a valid proof.
Whether I am in an organic chemistry class trying to synthesize a molecule or in a history class forming an argument, I can rely on the mental foundation I created at RSM. These skills will continue to help me in the future, and not just in academic contexts. As an adult, I will need to 'problem-solve' and, more broadly, think through challenging situations. Because of RSM, I can face challenges calmly and logically, sporting the same smile I beamed on a Wednesday evening years back.
I must add, however, that RSM would not have been as enriching an experience if not for its spectacular teachers. I thrive in academic environments where my teacher is committed to my growth, and I found such spaces at RSM – shoutout to Ms. Nemcova and Ms. Soltan. For these reasons, I highly recommend RSM as a place to learn, grow, and thrive.
