Week 1 Blog 2 - Why I am taking this class

Since I am an applied mathematics major with a concentration in operations research, I have had the opportunity to take several courses in the IEOR department. Because I grew an interest in this academic discipline, I thought it would be interesting to take more classes involving IEOR. Although this particular course is mainly designed for students with engineering backgrounds, I think it would be beneficial for me to learn more about technology issues and the smartphone patent war. I look forward to learning more about this war, and also about the major shift from people using computers to using smartphones.

Week 1 Blog 1 - About Me

My name is Elisa and I'm a 4th year Applied Mathematics major. Before coming to Berkeley, I played golf seriously for about ten years, and also planned to play the sport professionally one day. Thus, I attended middle/high school and some college in Florida, a place ideal for golfers. At one point however, I figured out that I enjoyed studying mathematics more than practicing and playing golf. So I stopped playing and started focusing more on my studies, and decided to come over to California.

Climbing Mt. Fuji last year is one of my greatest accomplishments so far. Climbing it was extremely tough, but it became an unforgettable experience, so I hope to go back to it once more. After graduating this May, I plan to either work in the U.S or in Japan.