Charlie Vazquez Acosta

Charlie Vazquez Acosta is a mathematical sciences and computer science double major

Year: Expected graduation: 2026

Minor: Physics

Why did you choose to attend NIU?
To follow in the footsteps of my prior mentor, Dr. Steven J. Kifowit, to attain a Ph.D. from NIU.

What scholarships did you receive and why did you receive them? How has the financial support impacted your experience at NIU?
I was fortunate to receive several scholarships, including the Honors Program Scholarship, NIU Transfer Merit Scholarship, Transfer Achievement Award and Mathematical Sciences Scholarship. These scholarships were awarded in recognition of my academic excellence, as well as my demonstrated financial need. I transferred to NIU after graduating with full academic honors from Waubonsee Community College, where I also gave back to my community by mentoring students in mathematics coursework of calculus and above, as well as upper-level computer science courses. The financial support I've received has been transformative. It has allowed me to attend NIU as a full-time student, fully dedicating myself to my coursework without the burden of financial stress. This freedom has enabled me to push the boundaries of my academic potential. As a result, I currently hold the highest grades among my peers in all my classes, and I've been able to sharpen my intellectual gifts in ways I never imagined. With this focus, I feel empowered to fulfill my lifelong dream of becoming a scientist capable of making a lasting impact on the world. The journey I've embarked on feels almost cinematic, as I now have the resources and support to reach heights I once only dreamed of.

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
From as early as third grade, I found myself captivated by physics and mathematics. I vividly remember going to the library with my mom, checking out adult books on space and teaching myself algebra. Even at a young age, I had a dream — to become a scientist who could use the power of math and science to unlock the mysteries of the universe. Today, that dream is closer to becoming a reality. I'm actively engaged in research in advanced mathematics, and just like when I was little, I spend countless hours in the library — now at Founders Memorial Library — delving into complex texts on real analysis and quantum mechanics. But this time, I'm not just reading out of curiosity; I'm doing so as a dedicated scholar, honing my skills for the future. Looking back, I realize that my childhood fascination has evolved into a lifelong commitment. I am more certain than ever that my path is to earn a Ph.D. in mathematics, and the journey I started as a child continues to inspire me every day.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I am officially majoring in mathematical sciences and computer science, with a minor in physics. My path was set from an early age, almost as if the universe itself chose me to explore the abstract worlds of mathematics and science. My passion for these fields only deepened after completing my associate's degree at community college, where everything became clear. A pivotal figure in my journey has been my former honors mentor, Dr. Steven J. Kifowit, who earned his Ph.D. here at NIU in 2015. His unwavering belief in me and his words — telling me that I possess an extraordinary gift for mathematics — solidified my decision to move forward with this course of study. His mentorship not only inspired me, but also strengthened my conviction that mathematics and science are where I'm meant to make my mark.

Have you conducted your own research through Research Rookies, Honors capstones or theses or any other faculty-guided research opportunity?
Yes

Tell us about the research you are doing and why it interests you.
I am currently part of the Research Rookies program working under the mentorship of Dr. Sien Deng, the graduate director of mathematics at NIU. Recently, I completed a research project that profoundly changed the trajectory of my life. My research focused on the related-rates framework, which has been a cornerstone of first-year calculus curricula across universities in the United States for over 150 years, originating at Harvard University. However, my findings led me to a groundbreaking conclusion; the framework as it stands is both incomplete and incorrect. On April 4, 2024, I introduced a new and unique mathematical framework that addresses the limitations of the traditional approach. Developing this framework required delving into mathematical concepts far beyond what is typically covered in a first-year calculus course. My research was then put to the test on April 19, 2024, at the Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference, where I competed against research from eight other colleges in the mathematics, engineering and technology category. To my astonishment, senior researchers from Argonne National Laboratory and Fermilab, as well as distinguished professors from universities across Chicago, awarded my work first place in the state of Illinois. Since then, my research has been presented at multiple universities, including at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign's Undergraduate Research Symposium on July 26, 2024. Here at NIU, Dr. Deng and several mathematics faculty members have taken a deep interest in my work, and we are currently collaborating through the Research Rookies program to further develop a general framework that will reshape how related rates are taught in calculus nationwide. It is humbling to realize that I, someone who once dreamt of exploring the universe as a child, have now uncovered a flaw in a framework that has stood for over a century and a half. This experience feels almost surreal, and the only explanation I can offer is that perhaps the universe truly chose me to live out the dreams I had since childhood.

How has conducting research strengthened your education and experience at NIU?
Through the Research Rookies program, I had the privilege of connecting with Dr. Sien Deng, the graduate director of mathematics, who has been instrumental in helping me identify my research interest and guiding me toward the tools needed for success in academic research. This mentorship has been invaluable in shaping my path forward. In addition to Research Rookies, I am also engaged in special projects though honors in-course contracts for my MATH 420: Abstract Algebra and MATH 360: Mathematical Modeling courses. These contracts allow me to explore advanced topics beyond the standard curriculum. In Abstract Algebra, under the mentorship of Dr. Michael Geline, I am delving into advanced work on rational points in elliptic curves — an area with significant implications for cryptography. The unique group structures formed by these points are key to encryption and secure key generation, and the difficulty of finding rational points on elliptic curves plays a critical role in safeguarding national security. My Mathematical Modeling honors project has me exploring advanced techniques of applications in dimensional analysis, an effective tool to address complicated real-world phenomena in sciences, particularly physics. This experience has profoundly deepened my understanding of the intricate ways mathematics can impact the world, especially in creating a safer and more secure society. My research has shown me how abstract mathematical concepts can have real-world applications, and this realization has strengthened not only my education, but also my sense of purpose. It has been a transformative journey, one that has reinforced my commitment to pursuing mathematics to contribute to a better future.

How will your research experience help you in the future?
My ultimate goal is to leave a lasting impact on society, academia and the sciences through the power of mathematics. The research experience I've gained at NIU is laying the foundation for this vision, equipping me with the critical skills needed to transform my talents into meaningful contributions. Each project I am working on is not only sharpening my analytical abilities, but also deepening my understanding of how mathematics can address complex, real-world challenges. This experience is preparing me to approach future research with the confidence, creativity and rigor needed to make a profound difference, both in advancing the field and in benefiting society at large.

Who at NIU has been important to your success doing research and why?
Dr. Andrea Radasanu, director of University Honors, and Edye Cowan, associate director, for allowing me to be part of the program and their continuous support of my academic goals. Dr. Sien Deng, graduate director of mathematics, for believing in me and inspiring me to change the world, as well as Dr. Alastair Fletcher, director of undergraduate studies, for always putting time aside for me, for he has treated me with uttermost respect and kindness, and for guiding me and connecting me with faculty.

What advice would you give to an incoming student as it relates to research at NIU?
Do not be afraid to pursue your dreams and passions. Talk to the faculty and express your interests, ask for help when needed, and put your heart, mind and soul into your studies. Learning to be a successful researcher is a process that takes time and commitment. Any student who follows this path will be successful.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
The dining halls have great food, and the professors are truly caring.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
Through the honors events, I have finally met people worth being friends with for life.

Are you involved in any student organizations, mentoring programs or extra-curricular activities? If so, which ones? How have they added to your experience as a Huskie?
Yes, I am an Honors Ambassador. I am also currently in the process of creating a student organization called Proxima Centauri Alpha and have recruited over 16 students so far. This organization promotes academic excellence and embodies similar values as the Honors Program; however, it is a student-led organization aimed at promoting and catering to STEM students. This experience as a Huskie is one I will never forget.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
The Honors Program office, for it is a place I feel safe and welcomed. I spend a lot of time studying there and have been relying on guidance and consolations from staff regarding my academics. The mathematics department and classrooms, where I find myself writing the equations that I love, for they have provided me a place I can use. The Disability Resource Center, for they helped me deal with medical issues relating to my disabilities, and the staff have treated me with compassion and love. Patterson Hall East, where I am housed, for it is my new home. The admissions offices, where I am welcome to stop by any time; in particular Ms. Mayra Lagunas, assistant vice president of enrollment services, who has advocated for me, and Omar Ramirez, an admissions counselor. Their offices are always open to me. Also, I cannot forget the police department and the many officers who now know me by name, in particular officer Cindy Zimberoff, who has gone above and beyond the call of duty to help me on several occasions.

What Honors Program opportunities or support have helped you get closer to your academic or career goals so far?
The Honors Program Scholarship I received gave me the opportunity to become an Honors Ambassador and contributed to my finances. The honors in-course contracts allowed me to engage in advanced projects in my non-honors math courses.

What do you enjoy the most about the Honors Program?
The love, support and kindness they provide. They are my family away from home.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
Dr. Sien Deng, my MATH 420: Real Analysis professor, inspired me to aim for the stars. His words to me, which I will never forget, were, "You are a very special student. I never came across a student as gifted as you. Don’t let anyone ever discourage you." Dr. Sien Deng is heaven-sent, for he truly believes in me. Dr. Yin Kwong was my MATH 360: Mathematical Modeling professor. We spent a lot of time working on advanced topics. He is very committed and is helping me move my mathematical skills to new levels. He is also very kind, and ironically, he is visually impaired, just as I am.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Yes and no. I learn very quickly, and I am further in my coursework than my peers. Sometimes class is less interesting because I have already mastered the topics. That’s why I am glad I am part of the honors in-course contract program, which truly enriches my learning.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
The honors lounge is where I go to get tea and work on my schoolwork. Plus, I always have to print my homework, and there’s free printing there. It is a quiet, safe place. I also like the area in DuSable on the third floor near the mathematics office, right next to the elevator, where there’s a study place with a whiteboard. No one goes there, and I spend every other day using the whiteboard, filling it with math. The faculty also lets me use empty classrooms, where I fill the whiteboards with my favorite equations and mathematical proofs.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
Go to the colleges that take interest in you and where you find the most connections and support.

Why is a college education important to you?
Because I will be the first in my family to graduate college. It will free me and give me the opportunity to fulfill my dreams of becoming a scientist.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I concentrate solely on my academics. I study about 10-12 hours every day. Although I should take time to meet and spend time with friends, I sacrificed my social life to gain legendary academic skills. I live away from home, so I talk to my parents and brothers over the phone when I can.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
The faculty surrounding me have always been very informative.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
Read mathematics, write computer programs, drink tea and listen to classical piano compositions.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
It is an honor to walk the halls throughout campus, and I am thankful for my NIU family. I promise this Huskie will change the world through mathematics.