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My Journey to Pakistan's National IMO Team - Amna Haider


Hey y'all! I'm Amna Haider from Pakistan, and I'm here to share my journey with you. It all started when I found out how exciting it would be to be part of Pakistan's National IMO (International Mathematical Olympiad) team. What began as a simple fascination quickly turned into a dream. A rising junior asked me to share my story, thinking it could inspire and help other high school students. I'm happy to help and hope my experience can guide you on your own path.


The Beginning of the Journey

The summer before my junior year was when the adventure truly began. Picture this: a math summer camp in June, filled with eager minds and challenging puzzles. It was here that I first heard about the IMO. The camp was organized by a local math club, and I met some senior students who had competed in various national and international math competitions. Their stories were like something out of a movie, and I decided then and there that I wanted to be part of the IMO team.


Building a Strong Foundation

Step one: build a rock-solid foundation in mathematics. While I was pretty good at school math, I knew Olympiad problems were in a whole different league. So, I dove into algebra, geometry, number theory, and combinatorics. My new best friends were books like "The Art and Craft of Problem Solving" by Paul Zeitz and "Introduction to Geometry" by Richard Rusczyk. (P.S it is really necessary to practice the basic DMAS on daily basis as it helps you focus and triggers the mind when you keep thinking that you have to answer as soon as possible).

I also discovered online platforms like Art of Problem Solving (AoPS) and Brilliant.org. These sites were a treasure trove of challenging problems and had communities of like-minded math enthusiasts who were just as passionate (and sometimes crazy) about math as I was.


Participating in Competitions

To test my skills and gain experience, I started participating in local and regional math competitions. My first big competition was the National Mathematics Talent Contest (NMTC) in November. Spoiler alert: I didn't win. But it was a valuable experience that taught me about time management, dealing with pressure, and, most importantly, where I needed to improve.

Joining my school's math club was another great move. We had regular practice sessions, solved challenging problems, and discussed various strategies. The friendly competition and camaraderie in the club pushed me to work harder and improve my skills.


Seeking Guidance and Mentorship

One of the game-changers in my journey was finding a mentor. My math teacher, Mr. Ahmed, had a contagious passion for mathematics. He had a wealth of experience and knowledge, and he generously shared it with me. Under his guidance, I learned not just how to solve problems but how to think critically and approach problems from different angles.

Mr. Ahmed introduced me to advanced mathematical concepts and problem-solving techniques. He also encouraged me to attend workshops and training camps organized by the Pakistan Mathematical Society (PMS). These camps were intense and rigorous, but they equipped me with the tools and techniques I needed to tackle Olympiad-level problems.

In addition to mentorship, I also found watching mental math speed questions on YouTube incredibly helpful. These videos helped me improve my problem-solving speed and accuracy, which was crucial during timed competitions.


Balancing Academics and Olympiad Preparation

Now, here comes one of the toughest parts: balancing my academic responsibilities with my Olympiad preparation. There were times when I felt overwhelmed and doubted my ability to manage everything. The pressure of performing well in school exams while dedicating enough time to prepare for the Olympiad was immense.

My friends weren't very encouraging either. They kept telling me to quit, saying it would mess up my exams. There were moments when I lost hope and considered giving up on my IMO dream to focus solely on my schoolwork. But deep down, I believed in myself and knew I could do it. With the support of my family and Mr. Ahmed, I learned to manage my time effectively. I created a study schedule that allowed me to balance both my schoolwork and Olympiad preparation without compromising on either.


The Selection Process

As my junior year progressed, the time came to participate in the preliminary rounds of the National Mathematics Olympiad organized by PMS. The competition was fierce, with some of the best young mathematicians from across the country vying for a spot on the national team.

The preliminary rounds, held in March, consisted of multiple stages, each more challenging than the last. I spent countless hours practicing and preparing, solving past IMO problems, and participating in online mock tests. The intermediate rounds in April were particularly grueling, with rigorous testing and problem-solving sessions that tested not just my mathematical skills but also my endurance and resilience.


The Final Selection

After months of preparation and multiple rounds of competition, I made it to the final selection tests in June. These tests were the culmination of everything I had worked for. The problems were incredibly challenging, and the competition was intense. However, I was determined to give it my best shot.

When the results were announced in July, I could hardly believe it—I had made it to Pakistan's National IMO team! The sense of accomplishment and pride was overwhelming so much that I had to ask everyone around me if I read it right lol that was totally an amazing day! It was the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief in myself.


Reflecting on the Journey

Looking back, my journey to the IMO team was filled with highs and lows. There were moments of doubt and frustration, but also moments of triumph and joy. I learned that perseverance and hard work are key to achieving any goal. I also realized the importance of having a support system—my teachers, mentors and my family who believed in me and encouraged me every step of the way.

Being part of the IMO team is not just about winning medals; it's about the love for mathematics(this was totally scripted) , the joy of solving problems, and the thrill of competing with the best. It's about pushing your limits, challenging yourself, and constantly striving to improve.

As I embark on this new chapter of my journey, I am filled with excitement and anticipation. I know that the road ahead will be challenging, but I am ready to face it with the same determination and passion that brought me here. My journey to the IMO team has taught me that with hard work, dedication, and a love for what you do, anything is possible.

In conclusion, my journey to Pakistan's National IMO team has been one of growth, learning, and self-discovery. It has taught me the value of perseverance, the importance of a strong foundation, and the power of a supportive community. As I continue to pursue my passion for mathematics, I am grateful for the experiences and lessons that have shaped me into the person I am today. I would like y'all to know that the hardest part is to START, once you start and aim; things work out and do not hesitate to get help it can be difficult to ask as an introvert myself i do understand but asking your teachers and discussing your goals with them can provide you some sort of satisfaction and hope to have help. BEST OF LUCK TO YOU ALL!!

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