Welcome to the Columbia Undergraduate Mathematical Modeling Workshop (CUMMW)
The Columbia Undergraduate Mathematical Modeling Workshop (CUMMW) gives undergraduate students an opportunity to work on real world problems using mathematical modeling. Participants explore data, build and test models, read and learn from existing work, and practice explaining their ideas clearly, either individually or as part of a team.
The problems studied in the workshop come from a wide range of areas, including science, social science, public policy, engineering, and everyday systems. Students do not need to be mathematics majors to participate, and no prior experience in mathematical modeling is required.
Workshop Goals
CUMMW aims to:
- introduce practical, interdisciplinary skills used in research and applied settings
- encourage collaboration and teamwork on open ended problems
- strengthen written and oral communication of technical ideas
Who Should Participate
The workshop is open to students from all majors and mathematical backgrounds. It is designed both for students who are new to modeling and for those who want more experience applying mathematics to real problems.
CUMMW also serves as a natural entry point for students interested in further opportunities in mathematical modeling, including participation in modeling contests such as the Mathematical and Interdisciplinary Contest in Modeling (MCM/ICM) and the Columbia Mathematical Modeling Contest (CMMC), as well as the department’s summer research program, CSUREMM.
Workshop Structure
The Spring 2026 session of CUMMW offers two ways to participate, depending on your interests and goals.
Individual Learning Track
This option is for students who want to build the foundations of mathematical modeling on their own.
- focus on core tools such as programming, data analysis, and technical writing
- work at your own pace, without joining a team
Team Training Track
This option is for students who want to work collaboratively on a modeling project.
- work in small teams on a structured modeling problem
- develop modeling, collaboration, and writing skills
- teams that complete the early stages are matched with a mentor for guidance
Both tracks are open to students from all majors and backgrounds. You can choose the path that best fits your interests.
Registration
To participate in CUMMW, please complete the short registration form: https://forms.gle/QDMfKwgmitRFcbRv9
The form helps us coordinate access to materials, connect participants, and organize team training and mentoring. It is not an application.
Registration for the workshop remains open throughout the session. Students may join the Individual Learning Track at any time. Students who plan to participate in the Team Training Track should note that:
- teams must be registered by January 26
- the initial preparation stage must be completed by February 2
After submitting the form, participants will receive instructions for accessing the workshop CourseWorks site, where all materials and announcements are posted.
CMMC (March 2026) Details:
- Dates: Monday, March 16, 9:00 AM – Thursday, March 19, 9:00 PM (EST)
- Team Size: 1-3 undergraduate students
- Registration Deadline: March 15 , 11:59 PM (EST)
One registration per team (only one member registers the team).
To participate, please register your team here: https://forms.gle/VxzWsUkG9wnffqCw8
Frequently Asked Questions
I haven’t taken many math or computing courses. Can I still participate?
Yes. The workshop is designed to be accessible to students with a wide range of backgrounds. Introductory resources and guided materials are provided to help you get started.
Are there any prerequisites?
No. There are no formal prerequisites for participating in the workshop.
I’m not a math major. Can I join?
Yes. Students from all majors are welcome. Many past participants have come from fields outside mathematics, including the social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering.
I don’t know any programming. Is that okay?
That’s completely fine. Programming is treated as a tool, not a prerequisite. The workshop includes tutorials and recommended resources to help you learn the basics as you go.
What does participation look like during the workshop?
The workshop is hands-on and mostly asynchronous. Participants work through modeling problems at their own pace, either individually or in teams. Along the way, you’ll practice building models, working with data, and writing clearly about your results. Team participants receive guidance and feedback during the later stages of the workshop.
Do I need a team to participate?
No. You can join the workshop on your own through the Individual Learning Track. Team participation is optional and applies only to the Team Training Track.
Can the workshop help me prepare for modeling competitions?
Yes, for students who are interested, the team track provides experience that is relevant to modeling contests. However, competition participation is not required and is not the main focus of the workshop.
Where can I find more information once I register?
After registering, you’ll receive access to the workshop CourseWorks site. This is where all materials, schedules, resources, and announcements are posted.
How do I get help if I have questions?
Participants can use the workshop’s Virtual Lounge to ask questions, share resources, and connect with others. For private or sensitive matters, you can contact the workshop organizer directly.
Other Questions?
Please contact George Dragomir or Ivan Corwin.
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