Brisbane State High School student Mikaela Gray represented Australia in the 2020 European Girls’ Mathematical Olympiad (EGMO). Outstandingly, Mikaela achieved a bronze medal and the Australian team placed 12th overall.
Mikaela excels in Year 11 Chemistry, French, Literature, Mathematical Methods, Specialist Mathematics and Physics. She is an active member of the State High community and is involved in QGSSSA Cross Country and Hockey, as well as the Symphonic Band.
Mikaela competed in the EGMO at home, due to current travel restrictions. Mikaela said, “Competing in the EGMO virtually was a unique experience – being at home, yet competing against girls from all over the world. I would have loved to travel to the Netherlands but was really glad that the competition could still be held.”
Mikaela was selected in the Australian EGMO team following her participation in the Australian Mathematical Olympiad Committee (AMOC) School of Excellence program last November, in which she was invited to sit six exams over 12 days. She began competing in mathematics competitions in primary school and has since participated in mathematics training programs, camps
and national competitions.
“Mathematics competitions are really challenging and no matter my result, I feel a sense of achievement for completing them. The EGMO is an amazing competition that I wish more girls could be aware of and strive for. I have learnt so much participating in and training for the EGMO. I have made many great, like-minded friends and it has strongly encouraged me to pursue further study in mathematics at university.”
Readers also enjoyed our story about 2020 BSHS captains
