On Feb. 29, sophomore Patrek Ragnarsson learned that he had advanced to the final stage of the International Math Olympiad, meaning he is eligible for the global competition this summer in Shanghai, China. Ragnarsson will compete on the Icelandic team, a strategic decision he was able to make because of his dual citizenship.
Due to the competitive nature of the competition, Ragnarsson’s placement is exceptionally rare. In 2010, junior Zach Levine finished just one level short of Ragnarsson, but Levine was attempting to qualify for the United States team. Since then, there have not been any notable ETHS student placings in the International Math Olympiad.
In choosing to put his efforts towards qualifying for the Icelandic team, Ragnarsson bettered his chances of making it to Shanghai. Compared to the US’ infamously competitive and large pool of applicants, Iceland draws from a smaller population. However, Ragnarsson still qualified through an extremely rigorous process. He progressed through multiple stages, including placing in the Icelandic Math Olympiad, ultimately earning a spot on Iceland’s national team.
Ragnarsson explained that the International Math Olympiad is the most esteemed competition for high school students. Due to its intensity, he began preparing for the competition at the beginning of the school year. He believes that his role as a member of the ETHS math team contributed to his success.
“It’s nice to have a team that supports each other,” said Ragnarsson.
Ragnarsson is excited for the upcoming competition. For students who are considering trying their hand at the competition, he has some advice.
“The results don’t matter, just the experience,” said Ragnarsson. “Improvement feels slow for everyone, so don’t give up.”
Junior Daniel Melnikov, a fellow math team member, is not surprised by Ragnarsson’s achievement and believes he has the potential to go far in the competition. Melnikov recalled a time when both a teacher and ChatGPT failed to solve a math problem, yet Ragnarsson managed to.
“Patty got it right away,” said Melnikov. “This kid is going places.”
Students wish Ragnarsson success as he prepares for his adventure overseas.
