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Gustavo Brasil de Souza, Class of 2022

Now: Graduate mathematics student at The University of Texas at Arlington

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For Gustavo Brasil de Souza, mathematics has never been only a subject. It's a way of thinking. After graduating from Southern Adventist University in May 2022 with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, Gustavo spent two years in the investments office of the treasury department at the General Conference. During that time, a growing interest in mathematical neuroscience led to a new goal: graduate school. Today, Gustavo is pursuing a PhD in Mathematics at the University of Texas at Arlington and teaching as a graduate teaching assistant.

Finding a Home in Mathematics

Gustavo has always loved mathematics, especially writing and understanding proofs. Freshman calculus built confidence, and Calculus II with Dr. Anderson in sophomore year sealed the decision to major in math.

Two professors shaped that path most. Dr. Anderson's pure mathematics courses, including Set Theory and Logic, Abstract Algebra, and Real Analysis, built a strong theoretical foundation. Dr. Brown's applied courses, including Differential Equations, Probability and Statistics, and Exam P Preparation, showed how mathematics connects to the real world.

"My favorite memories were attending office hours with Dr. Anderson. Those conversations often went beyond the immediate homework problems and helped deepen my understanding of the material."

Gustavo also took initiative beyond campus, enrolling in a number theory course through Southwestern Adventist University during the final semester at Southern.

Built for Graduate Study

The core courses at Southern, Analysis, Algebra, and proof writing, gave Gustavo the background needed for advanced graduate coursework and research. What Gustavo enjoys most about graduate work now is taking on challenging material, understanding it more deeply over time, and seeing how theory connects to research.

Advice for Future Math Majors

For students considering graduate school in mathematics, Gustavo recommends:

  • Build a strong foundation in real analysis, abstract algebra, and linear algebra, and take as many pure math and upper-division electives as you can.
  • Go to office hours. Build relationships with your professors and ask questions when you're stuck.
  • Practice beyond the homework. Extra problems strengthen understanding.
  • Seek out research and networking opportunities to see what higher-level mathematical work looks like.
  • Broaden your toolkit. Consider a minor or double major in physics, and take computer science courses to build coding skills.

A Word on Confidence

"I wish I had taken my professors' belief in my mathematical ability more seriously. It's easy to develop impostor syndrome in mathematics, even when you are performing well academically... The best thing to do is show up, do the work, ask for help when needed, and build relationships with your professors."

For Gustavo, the line between work and personal curiosity has blurred, and that is part of the appeal. The ideas studied in the classroom are the same ones that spark interest outside it.