As a graduate student at Harvard, I had to explain quite a few times that I was allowed to attend a university as a woman in Iran. — Maryam Mirzakhani Copy Share Image
As a kid, I dreamt of becoming a writer. My most exciting pastime was reading novels; in fact, I would read anything I could… — Maryam Mirzakhani Copy Share Image
My older brother was the person who got me interested in science in general. He used to tell me what he learned in school.… — Maryam Mirzakhani Copy Share Image
I grew up in a family with three siblings. My parents were always very supportive and encouraging. It was important for them that we… — Maryam Mirzakhani Copy Share Image
I did poorly in math for a couple of years in middle school; I was just not interested in thinking about it. — Maryam Mirzakhani Copy Share Image
The beauty of mathematics only shows itself to more patient followers. — Maryam Mirzakhani Copy Share Image
I don't have any particular recipe. It is the reason why doing research is challenging as well as attractive. It is like being lost… — Maryam Mirzakhani Copy Share Image
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.… — Maryam Mirzakhani Copy Share
Sometimes, properties of a fixed hyperbolic surface can be better understood by studying the moduli space that parameterises all hyperbolic structures on a given… — Maryam Mirzakhani Copy Share Image
I don't think that everyone should become a mathematician, but I do believe that many students don't give mathematics a real chance. — Maryam Mirzakhani Copy Share Image
In particular, I am interested in understanding hyperbolic surfaces. — Maryam Mirzakhani Copy Share Image
I like crossing the imaginary boundaries people set up between different fields - it's very refreshing. — Maryam Mirzakhani Copy Share Image
