USU Math & Stats Student Highlighted for ArtSci Student Spotlight Series

LOGAN, Utah — India Evans, a junior majoring in mathematics with a minor in statistics, is right where she expected to be, strengthening her math skills and taking one day at a time.

“Junior year has definitely been a lot,” India said. “I’m in the section of my classes that are pretty hard. It’s been stretching my brain.”

This year, India’s coursework has leaned heavily into mathematical theory rather than computation. After completing Theory of Linear Algebra last semester, she’s now taking Introduction to Analysis, a course focused on the foundations of calculus, along with statistics theory-heavy classes.

She also fulfills a role as a recitation leader in the mathematics department, a position she’s had since her second year at Utah State University. Over the past semesters, India has led recitation sections for linear algebra, college algebra and now statistical methods.

Recitation sections are smaller, classroom-atmosphere, discussion-based classes where students can work through material in more depth with a student helper. Intimidated by this role at first, India said the experience quickly became one of the most valuable parts of her education.

“I was really nervous,” she said. “I even called my boss and told him I was nervous about doing the position, but he was extremely reassuring.”

As part of the role, recitation leaders attend every lecture taught by the professor they’re working with.

“Learning how to teach really boosted my mathematical skills,” India said. “Not just for that class, but in general.”

India also stays busy as a member of the Association of Women in Mathematics. Over the summer, she participated in a PEAK fellowship, where she conducted undergraduate research alongside a faculty mentor.

Working with Professor Peter Crooks, India spent the summer diving into graduate-level topics like manifolds and Hamiltonian geometry. This experience gave India an inside look at advanced mathematical research and helped her explore what a future in the field might look like.

Looking ahead, India is keeping her options open. With interests ranging from teaching and research to engineering-adjacent fields, she appreciates the flexibility her degree provides.

“Math has a broad range of career options,” she said.

Outside the classroom, India enjoys drawing, plays piano and watching weekly movies with her roommate.

She plans to graduate a semester early and hopes to spend her final term exploring fun classes available at USU.

Her advice to students considering USU or the math department is simple.

“Get a to-do list,” she said. “Go to professors’ office hours. Use recitation leaders and TAs. And take advantage of events, especially theater and performances. Use your time as a student to explore outside your major and use the resources while you have them.”