Participating in MATHCOUNTS has been a very rewarding experiencing for me, not only because I received first place in our local chapter competition in both the individual and team categories, but also because I learn multiple lessons and traits from it. Being able to compete in math contests, such as MATHCOUNTS, teaches students how to be a part of a friendly competition. They learn time management skills, self-disciple, humbleness, and many other important skills in addition to learning how to do more complex math problems they may not typically be exposed to. This competition is also gives middle school kids a chance to meet new students who share similar qualities to themselves. MATHCOUNTS has helped me grow my love of math, taught me life …show more content…
Time management is required when taking a rigorous test, especially during a competition. Budgeting your allowed time and not spending too much time on each problem is important during competitions. I have learned to use this process during other tests in high school and college. In addition to using time management while taking tests, I have learned to use it in other aspects of my life. It is necessary to use time wisely and to not take too long doing something and not give yourself enough time for something else that is just as important, whether it is taking too long on a challenging math problem and not having enough remaining time to do an easier one or spending countless hours on homework and not getting enough sleep. At the same time, it is just as important to understand what tasks require more of your time so that you may budget …show more content…
Days before the competition, my math teacher and advisor for the program gave us students who were participating practice problems. A few of the students were not as disciplined just threw the packet in the garbage right away. I decided that I would put time into learning the problems that were difficult, and I went to the teacher for help on the ones I could do not do on my own. Doing this simple act helped me understand that putting time into something, setting a goal, and doing what it takes to pursue that goal can truly pay off. I believe I have become a very self-discipled person as I am organized, set goals, and put time into what matters most before what does