Michelle Sweering (17) best math girl in the world
The Dutch Michelle Sweering became the best math girl in the world at the International Mathematical Olympiad in South Africa. She is the only girl who won a golden medal.
The Dutch team was supervised by Birgit van Dalen, who in 2011, received her doctorate degree at the Mathematical Institute of Leiden University, ever since a partner of the Mathematical Olympiad.
The International Mathematical Olympiad took place from 6 to 13 July in Cape Town, South Africa. The Dutch team was exceptionally strong this year: all 6 students achieved a medal. On each of the two competition days, the students were given three tasks of high mathematical level where they could work on for four and a half hours. Michelle was one of only 15 participants who knew how to solve the most difficult task.