Purdue University - Debris Yearbook (West Lafayette, IN)

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OERARTMENT OF MATHEMATfCS HATEVER branch of work we iTia ' take up in the future, it is quite a settled fact that the man of success will be the man that has learned to think. If a college course has accom- plished no more than to teach one to think it has well served its purpose, and if it can be said that any one subject has done most toward developing these powers it can trulv be said of mathematics. This course is particularly strong at Purdue, being presided over by a corps of professors eminently fitted for the work. The course is laid out about as follows : During the first two years the students in all courses are required to take plane and solid geometry, higher algebra and trigonometry. In addition to the above named studies those in the engineering course take up analytical geometry, and, in their junior year, calculus. This ends the regular work in mathematics, but electives are offered to those 57

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of all kinds. This year has seen the following most notable additions: a number of lathes; a planer; a milling machine; a grinder; and a turret lathe. Thus the department is alwavs up to date. A thorough course of lectures in shop practice is given and regular examinations are held upon the same. The great importance of this department is sometimes not fully appreciated by the student until he reaches his junior and senior years. Then it is when difficult problems in design engage his attention, that he realizes that it is his training in the shops that enables him to surmount them. Many may argue that a school cannot supply the shop knowledge, but whatever the case may be, there is little question, so far as the engineer is concerned, but that well directed shop training makes it infinitely easier for him to master the details. 56

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further interested in solid analvtical geometry, differential equations and teast squares. A good knowledge of mathematics is fundamental if one wishes to become master ot his profession. To the engmeer it enables him to get at mechanical truths and to fix them permanently in his mind. To the scientist, it opens up a vast field of original research that would otherwise be beyond his reach. To the agriculturist, it brings him in closer touch with nature, for in nature are embodied many of the principles of mathem Ltics. The realm of mathematics has gradually broadened. Not many years have passed since the man that had advanced beyond the three R ' s was looked upon as a wonder But those days are well nigh passed, thanks to the broadening influences of such institu- tions as Purdue. msf.