When it comes to math, senior Hailey Puglia is not like other students. In fact, she took linear algebra last semester at Cosumnes River College as well as Calculus III and Differential Equations at American River College.

“It’s come pretty naturally to me,” she said. “I really enjoy the logic and structure of math. I also love how virtually all fields of mathematics eventually intersect with one another and can be found in all parts of our universe.”

Puglia’s favorite part of math has been the Mathletes program, which she has now participated in for five years, including three years as president of the team. She is sad to have to leave Mathletes when she graduates this year.

“It’s been so nice to be in a community of people that enjoys math as much as I do,” she said. “It has become a second home to me.”

Puglia was recently named to the All-Sacramento Team and All-Senior Team for Mathletes. She was also Senior of the Year, having scored the highest in the league, and at the most recent competition placed second overall in the entire Mathletes league.

She credits Mrs. Popov for her profound influence and for motivating and coaching her. Additionally, Puglia is enrolled in all advanced classes and participates in the Honors Concert Band as a clarinet player.

She is a math tutor for the Ray-der program and an English and math tutor for English Language Learners at Sierra Oaks. Puglia also took on an additional role this year as the founder of Rio’s Women in STEM club.

“Looking forward, I absolutely plan on applying what I’ve learned in math to my career,” she said. Puglia plans to double major in chemical engineering and applied math at Colorado School of Math.

When she is not heavily invested in math and other STEM subjects, Puglia enjoys reading, crocheting and skiing.