Mathematics Department Handbook

Welcome to the Department of Mathematics at the University of Rochester.

We have compiled these notes in order to assist you, the first year student, in making the transition from high school to university. This is sometimes a difficult process for various reasons. As far as first year mathematics courses go, there are two main difficulties:

First, the Department of Mathematics expects students who take courses in mathematics to take the responsibility for mastering the course material. There is lots of assistance offered, all detailed in these notes, but it is your responsibility to use these resources. Second, many talented students have been able to do well in their high school math courses in spite of not having regular work habits, but now the situation is very different. It is almost impossible to pass first year university mathematics courses without developing these habits. We hope this Guide will help you learn how.

We have also included in these notes some hints on study techniques and writing examinations, expanded descriptions of first year courses, and a reading list for students interested in expanding their knowledge of mathematics in a general way.

Again, welcome, and we wish you every success in your academic endeavors.

Contents

"The Science of Pure Mathematics, in its modern developments, may claim to be the most original creation of the human spirit." -- Alfred North Whitehead