New College of Florida Student Cody Gunton Receives Prestigious Goldwater Scholarship

April 13, 2011 — New College of Florida student Cody Gunton has been awarded a prestigious Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship for his work in number theory. Gunton, a third-year student from Jupiter, Fla; is one of 275 students in math, science and engineering to be named a 2011 Goldwater Scholar. Third-year student Hannah Jane Weber; from Tampa, Fla; received an honorable mention for her research in cancer immunology. At New College, Gunton has worked closely with Professor of Mathematics Pat McDonald, who encouraged him to apply for the scholarship. Gunton values the creative approach to the study of mathematics that New College provides through tutorial and independent study projects, which allow students to create a unique academic experience in close consultation with faculty advisors.

“If I’m reading something that interests me, my faculty advisor gives me the flexibility to follow the research where it takes me,” Gunton said.

Gunton plans to pursue a Ph.D. in mathematics and a career in research. This summer he will study with William Hoffman, mathematics professor at Louisiana State University, during a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) funded by the National Science Foundation.

The Goldwater Scholarship is the premier undergraduate award given annually to outstanding sophomores and juniors who intend to pursue research-oriented careers in mathematics, science and engineering. The scholarships provide up to $7,500 per year for up to two years of undergraduate study. The Goldwater Scholarship program was established by Congress in 1986 to honor Senator Barry Goldwater for his decades of service as a soldier and in the U.S. Senate.