Math Is Fun! Meet Amy Sun, DAIS/DHS Class of 2026

For Amy Sun, DAIS/DHS Class of 2026 Valedictorian, math became even more enjoyable when it became more challenging. She is now starting her first year at the University of California, San Diego (UC San Diego), pursuing her passion for STEM. She chose UC San Diego because it was one of her strongest university offers and because she was drawn to its sunny coastal location. She is also excited by the university's strong STEM programs and the opportunities they provide.

Math Is Fun, Especially When It's Hard

During her three years at DAIS, Amy focused on mathematics and physics, completing all available AP math and AP physics courses. In her senior year, she also enrolled in an online Calculus III course through the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

While math came naturally to her in Grades 9 and 10, Amy found herself wanting more advanced coursework. "In my junior year, I planned to take a harder course, and that decision made me think it's fun." For Amy, that meant exploring higher-level mathematics. The experience deepened her interest in STEM and influenced the direction of her future studies.

Going Beyond the AP Curriculum

Amy's willingness to push herself academically extended beyond the AP curriculum. In addition to completing a rigorous AP course load, she took a college-level Calculus III course while still in high school, gaining firsthand experience with university-level expectations.

^{Amy (right) and Dr. Liu, DAIS math teacher}

Her advanced coursework helped prepare her for the rigorous STEM opportunities she is now pursuing at UC San Diego.

Leadership Outside the Classroom

Junior year was one of Amy's busiest years. Along with four AP courses, she remained actively involved in school life. She performed in several dance routines during the annual Talent Show, joined the National Honor Society (NHS), and served as the organization's Treasurer, developing leadership and time-management skills along the way.

^{High School Talent Show}

Aiming for a PhD

Looking beyond her undergraduate studies, Amy already has ambitious goals for the future. "When I graduate from university, I plan to go to grad school or even get my PhD degree."

Now studying at UC San Diego, Amy continues to build on the strong foundation she developed at DAIS. We are proud of all she has accomplished and look forward to seeing where her passion for STEM takes her next.