Michael Cerchia
- Degree: M.A.
- Class of: 2019
- Career Path: Academia
“My job today is split between research and teaching, and I'm grateful to have gotten a taste of both while at Wake Forest. “
Post Graduation
After getting my master’s from Wake Forest, I got a PhD in Mathematics at Emory University in 2024.
What was your first job after your Ph.D?
Fixed Term Assistant Professor (three year postdoc) at the University of Maine.
How did your degree program prepare you for your career? What are the important skills you developed while a part of the program?
The master’s program gave me the opportunity to take several challenging math courses that weren’t offered at my undergraduate institution. This gave me the background and confidence to work on a research problem, which I got the chance to do under the guidance of Professor Jeremy Rouse. In addition to research and course work, I led discussion sections and graded as part of my TA. My job today is split between research and teaching, and I’m grateful to have gotten a taste of both while at Wake Forest.
What was your favorite memory about Wake Forest and the Department?
Either working on problem sets in the Math Lab with other grad students or hanging out in the lounge with friends and faculty.
What is one thing you would want other people to know about the Department of Mathematics at Wake Forest University?
It’s a friendly department, and the master’s program is great for anyone trying to decide if pursuing a PhD/math research is right for them.
Is there anything you wish you knew while in the program at WFU or any advice you would give to current students?
Work on problem sets together!