Varun, a fifth-grader at GEMS World Academy Chicago, soon will take his math talents to Texas A&M University.

Varun will participate in the Math League Elementary National Championship, which will be held at Texas A&M on June 15. He qualified by placing in the top five for all fifth-grade participants in the Math League statewide contest in May.

“I’m excited for Nationals,” Varun said. “I really like taking these tests. They’re fun, even though there’s pressure, too.”

Varun, a member of the GEMS Math Team, has had a strong year across the board in competitions. In addition to his Math League successes, he also qualified for, and participated in, the national MathCon competition in Chicago earlier this year.

He said he likes the logical challenge that math problems present.

“Algebra is what I like the most, because I like solving for X,” he said. “But you see all kinds of math in these competitions.”

Meg Knapik, GEMS math curriculum coordinator and leader of the Math Team, praised Varun’s focus and work ethic.

“Varun has dedicated a significant amount of additional time during recess and outside of school to prepare himself for these competitions,” Ms. Knapik said. “Being able to compete at the national level in each of these contests is an impressive feat, and we are so proud of Varun's hard work!”

Below is a picture of Ms. Knapik and Varun after the state competition in May.