Ryan Yook
This is Ryan Yook, a student at Gould Academy. As someone deeply engaged in studying mathematics, I’m constantly driven by questions about the underlying systems and patterns that explain the complex phenomena around us. Whether I’m solving equations or exploring statistical models, I find fulfillment in how math provides a framework for interpreting and making sense of the world.
I was also an athlete with a background in track and field before I got Rheumatoid Arthritis. The intersection of math and athletics is where I thrive, as I see both as disciplines that push me to understand limits, whether physical or abstract. Math and sports came together to sharpen my focus and broaden my perspective on how we measure achievement and progress, both on and off the track.
Mathematics
Math Team
As a member of the math team, I participated in various math competitions every year, and I became the team captain and led the team during my senior year. Leading the team during this time was an invaluable experience, pushing me to grow not only as a mathematician but also as a leader.
Math Book Award
In addition to our team’s accomplishments, I received the Math Book Award, which is given to the top student in each grade. This award held special significance for me, as it recognized not only my achievements in competitions but also my overall commitment to mathematics throughout the year. It also inspired me to share my knowledge and passion for math with others, encouraging my peers to explore the subject in greater depth.
State Meet
At the ME state math meet, our team won first place in our division. It was a result of months of preparation, intense practice, and teamwork. Every member contributed their unique strengths, and we were able to rise to the challenge together. What made the victory even more special was the fact that almost all of our members received individual awards for their outstanding performance, showcasing not only our collective success but also the individual brilliance within our team.
NEML (New England Mathematics League)
Our team also had the honor of receiving the prestigious New England Mathematics League award, which was a testament to our dedication and hard work throughout the year.
Shoe donation
When my childhood diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis relapsed, it forced me to give up track activities for the rest of my life.
However, this turning point pushed me to channel my passion for running in a different direction. I realized that while I had lost the ability to run, there were many aspiring runners in places like Kenya who faced a different kind of barrier: the lack of proper running shoes. Without adequate shoes, these talented athletes were held back from pursuing their dreams, despite having the potential to go far.
This understanding inspired me to start a project to donate shoes to runners in Kenya, with the goal of giving them the chance I no longer had. By providing these athletes with the basic equipment they needed, I hoped to help them take a step closer to their dreams. It was incredibly fulfilling to know that my efforts could make a tangible difference in their lives, allowing them to pursue the sport they loved without the limitations of inadequate gear. In a way, this initiative allowed me to keep my connection to running alive, by passing on the hope and opportunities that I once held onto so dearly.
Running Device Project
After I had to give up running due to my condition, I felt compelled to find other ways to stay connected to the sport and support athletes striving to reach their potential. I knew from my own experience as a track athlete that training effectively required not only dedication but also precise measurement and analysis of performance.
With this in mind, I decided to develop a device that would offer a more reliable way to measure the time taken to run specific distances. The goal wasn’t just to track time—it was to empower athletes with the data they needed to push their limits and achieve their speed goals. By offering a more precise measurement of their progress, I hoped to contribute to the training of countless runners, enabling them to train smarter and become faster.
To ensure that the shoes I was donating were of the highest quality and truly beneficial for the runners, I reached out to a professor at Konkuk University. With their support, I was able to conduct a series of tests at the university to evaluate the shoes' performance. By collaborating with the professor and utilizing the resources at Konkuk University, I aimed to provide reliable and well-researched equipment to the runners, giving them the best possible chance to achieve their dreams. This collaboration was essential in verifying that the shoes would genuinely help the athletes, reinforcing my commitment to making a meaningful impact.
The device I developed utilizes an infrared sensor to detect the runner as they cross a specific point on the track. When a runner passes through the sensor’s detection range, the device automatically records the time with high precision, ensuring accurate measurements for every run. Runners can focus entirely on their performance without worrying about the accuracy of their timing. The goal was to create a seamless and reliable tool that could help athletes monitor their progress more effectively, providing them with valuable data to refine their training and reach their speed goals.
Shoe Review YouTube
I have opened a YouTube channel that reviews running shoes and uploads videos.
Through my channel, I aim to help other runners find the best shoes for their needs, whether they’re beginners or experienced athletes. I also saw this as an opportunity to combine my passion for running with my interest in community-building by connecting with fellow runners and enthusiasts around the world. It’s not just about reviewing shoes. it’s about creating a space where people can exchange tips, share experiences, and support each other’s running journeys.
