Our school had the privilege of being addressed by Professor Minerva, esteemed faculty member at IIT Kanpur and the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI). Her session on exploring opportunities in Mathematics and Statistics was both insightful and enlightening, offering a comprehensive overview of two of India’s most respected institutions in mathematical sciences.
The talk began with an introduction to the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at IIT Kanpur, where Professor briefed us on the core undergraduate programs: Mathematics and Scientific Computing, and Statistics and Data Science. Professor Minerva explained the structure of these programs in detail, highlighting the coursework, elective choices, and flexibility available to students. She spoke about the academic pathways such as the BS–MS extension, as well as the dual major option. We also learnt about the two master’s programs offered at IIT Kanpur, admissions to which are primarily based on performance in the JAM examination. The high placement rates, along with career opportunities in consulting, data science, analytics, and research, provided us with a realistic understanding of what these programs can lead to.
The session then shifted to the Indian Statistical Institute, one of the premier institutions for mathematical sciences in the country. Professor Minerva outlined the three undergraduate programs—Statistics, Mathematics, and Statistics and Data Science. She provided a detailed explanation of the curricula, admission procedures, and exit options available to students pursuing these courses. She spoke about how ISI structures its programs to build strong foundations in theoretical and applied mathematics. She also elaborated on the master’s programs offered at ISI, including specialised MTech degrees, and highlighted the numerous post-graduate diploma programs available.
A particularly engaging segment of the talk was the discussion on internships and placements, both at IIT Kanpur and ISI. Professor Minerva emphasised how these institutions maintain strong industry connections, giving students opportunities to work in sectors such as finance, data science, artificial intelligence, public policy, and research.
Professor Minerva’s willingness to answer every question patiently and thoughtfully ensured that the session was not only informative but also highly interactive.
We remain deeply grateful to Ma’am for taking the time to share her expertise and for offering us such a clear and motivating picture of the academic possibilities in mathematics and statistics
By: Nora Martins