“Plugging and chugging” is an all-too-common way to solve straightforward math problems. But Steven Cao (12) prefers to explore at a deeper level, thinking about ways to prove abstract mathematical concepts.

In particular, his Information Theory and Modern Physics classes give him a welcome opportunity for problem-solving.

“In Information Theory, [for] a lot of the proofs and problems, the authors take it in another direction where you have to think think for a long time and use your intuition and apply rules,” Steven said. “That kind of difficult thinking is what I found most enjoyable. Most of [my other classes] are rule based, and this is more of an exploration class.”

While Information Theory merges computer science with traditional mathematical proofs, Modern Physics applies mathematical concepts in a different way.

“Modern Physics is more of a discussion-based class, so the thing about it is that the concepts are so foreign and new, yet mathematical,” he said. “The unfamiliarity of it compared to other classes is what I enjoy.”

Steven’s desire to learn translates to his teaching, as he gains satisfaction from helping others understand new concepts.

“When I teach someone and they actually get it, its feels like I have actually accomplished something and I’ve helped [someone],” he said.

Steven’s love of teaching stems from the support he received from his first cross country teammates. Just as his team helped him acclimate to the sport, Steven hopes to ignite a similar passion for learning in his students.

“When I started running, I was pretty slow because freshman year was my first year running,” he said. “But a lot of my peers and seniors were really supportive of me, ran with me, cheered me on. They’ve made me really appreciate running not only as a sport but also as a part of my life. They have an influence on my being supportive to other people.”

Cross country serves as a vehicle for both learning and teaching, as Steven often exchanges ideas with cross country teammate Andrew Rule (12) at practice.

“Andrew and I often talk during runs,” Steven said. “He often teaches me about English and books he’s reading, and I can teach him about Modern Physics.”

Steven plans on majoring in computer science and is debating an academic versus industrial path in the field.

“I want to feel like I’ve done something at the end of the day,” he said. “If I have too much free time, and I feel like I am not getting anything done, it feels like something is missing.”