Math Jam

Math Jam Helps Engineering Student Diana Lis Valderrama was able to skip two math classes - trigonometry and precalculus - and begin studying calculus during her first semester at Cañada College thanks to participating in the summer Math Jam. The Math Jam was one of several projects initiated at Cañada this year aimed at improving the interest, persistence and performance of underrepresented students in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. It was funded by a $900,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Education. “When I first took my placement test I tested into trigonometry,” Diana said. “When I attended the summer engineering institute I was asked if I would be interested in participating in the Math Jam. I’m glad I did because it made a big difference.” Participating in the Math Jam gave Diana access to personal tutors who helped her with a study plan. “I learned more in four days at the Math Jam than I did in three semesters at high school.” Diana is studying engineering at Cañada and plans to eventually transfer to San Francisco State or San Jose State.

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