Maryam Mirzakhani famous quotes

The most rewarding part of my work is the "Aha" moment, the excitement of discovery and enjoyment of understanding something new - the feeling of being on top of a hill and having a clear view. But most of the time, doing mathematics for me is like being on a long hike with no trail and no end in sight. I find discussing mathematics with colleagues of different backgrounds one of the most productive ways of making progress.
-- Maryam Mirzakhani

#Long #Feelings #Understanding

I don't think that everyone should become a mathematician, but I do believe that many students don't give mathematics a real chance. I did poorly in math for a couple of years in middle school; I was just not interested in thinking about it. I can see that without being excited mathematics can look pointless and cold. The beauty of mathematics only shows itself to more patient followers.
-- Maryam Mirzakhani

#Couple #Real #Believe

It is invaluable to have a friend who shares your interests and helps you stay motivated.
-- Maryam Mirzakhani

#Helping #Share #Motivated

As a kid, I dreamt of becoming a writer. My most exciting pastime was reading novels; in fact, I would read anything I could find. I never thought I would pursue mathematics until my last year in high school. I grew up in a family with three siblings. My parents were always very supportive and encouraging. It was important for them that we have meaningful and satisfying professions, but they didn't care as much about success and achievement.
-- Maryam Mirzakhani

#Meaningful #Sibling #Reading

I don't know how long a child will remain utterly static in front of the television, but my guess is that it could be well into their thirties.

The greatest problem about old age is the fear that it may go on too long.

Autumn can be glorious but menacing too - the long shadows, brisk winds, scurrying leaves, impending frost.

On Tuesday, when it hails and snows, The feeling on me grows and grows That hardly anybody knows If those are these or these are those.

One should not be happy or distressed over desirables and undesirables, knowing that such feelings are just created by the mind.

I write about my feelings, things that happen in my life and experiences.

The pressure I put on myself is the only pressure I'm feeling once I get into the game.

Being onstage is just a feeling that you cannot duplicate anywhere else because the energy that the audience is giving you forces you to give more energy. It's such an output and exchange of energy. You can't do that anywhere else.

I try to make myself do things for other people when I'm feeling down. Like, you can call your local hospital and help out in the pediatric unit.

A visual understanding of great composition and how to use a camera and expensive lenses can be learned, but drive and a real hunger for making photos and telling stories... I don't think that part can be learned. You either have that inside, or you don't.