Student/Alumni spotlight

Maya Schwickert
BS in Mathematics

Anticipated graduation date:
December 2026

Why did you choose TWU?
Along with academics, I am a highly competitive artistic swimmer. I chose TWU for its recently founded artistic swimming program. Therefore, I can keep doing the sport I've been training since I was five years old and pursue the academic goals I want to achieve!

What do you love about your program?
The Mathematics Division is such a close knit community. I love that the class sizes are small so I am able to connect with my professor and classmates. Along with this, I really enjoy the research experience opportunities the division provides. I've been able to participate and present a poster at the TWU Creative Arts and Research Symposium for a class. I found this very beneficial to broaden my experiences with presenting. I also really love that due to the smaller size of the mathematics division, it's been easier for me to balance a dual major because I was able to ask many of the mathematics professors for advice or help on my present and future classes.

What would you tell prospective students about your program?
TWU has a strong focus on empowering women. I think this is wonderful about the mathematics program, as math is a traditionally underrepresented field by women, and it creates a very special and supportive environment.

How has TWU helped you achieve professional goals?
In my two years of university experience, I’ve been able to compete at two artistic swimming Collegiate National Championships, along with multiple other competitions. I also started research under Dr. Kohan in the Division of Chemistry and Biochemistry after my first semester, as well as presented a poster at the 2023 TWU Creative Arts and Research Symposium, the ACS Conference, and the 2024 TWU Celebration of Science. I am also able to keep up with my classes for mathematics and chemistry, as I am expected to graduate with both degrees in 3.5 years. I am also in the accelerated program in Chemistry, and am working towards my master's and my bachelor's degrees at the same time. I believe that I wouldn't be able to experience all this as only a sophomore at any other university. TWU has been able to challenge me academically, all while being a student athlete, and I strongly believe that I have gained valuable experiences for my future career, as well as life in general.

What are your plans after graduation?
The career I am pursuing is an intelligence analyst or special agent within the FBI. Being able to use my knowledge of STEM, specifically chemistry and mathematics, to help the greater good is my ultimate dream. I also aspire to continue the research I'm currently working on, presenting at conferences and publishing papers, and ultimately inspiring women to pursue careers in STEM.

What are one-two key reasons potential students should consider TWU?
TWU is a very supportive and empowering university. You are able to complete your degree or degrees at a pace that challenges you. Along with that, due to smaller class sizes, it's easier to talk to professors to ask for help on anything. It is also a very inclusive campus, with a women focused foundation.