During the week, a Year 9 pupil completed their work experience at the Department of Mathematics and had the opportunity to try out what it is like to work with mathematics at university level. The pupil worked on challenging problems from Kangaroo Cadet 2025 and other mathematics competitions, and classified them according to the subject areas defined by the Swedish National Agency for Education.

A particular focus was the Frobenius Coin Problem, where the pupil formulated a conjecture that turned out to be correct and could be verified in several cases. Together, we also carried out computer-based calculations that revealed additional patterns in the problem.

The week also provided a broad insight into university life. During lunches and coffee breaks, the pupil met researchers, teachers, and doctoral students who shared their experiences of mathematics, research, and everyday work at the department. The pupil also had the chance to improve an oral presentation and discussed what it is like to take part in mathematics competitions.

It was an intense and inspiring work-experience week, filled with both mathematics and academic insight.

Learn more about work experience placements and other activities we offer for school pupils.