<p>Unalove, I agree on the innate characteristics of many math-type people vs. the school. Met S’s mentor last week after more than a year, and it was clear why they are so sympatico. S was utterly in his element; the prof is just like S, only with about 30 years on him.</p>
<p>That said, I will mention that everywhere S interviewed, they were far more interested in discussing his newspaper and teaching experience than in the math/CS competitions, etc. I gather that being able to write well and being an enthusaistic personality was somewhat unexpected. Two years ago, he was also a highly introverted, total geek. Still a math nerd, but he has definitely come out of his shell! :)</p>
<p>Am also interested in the algebra book (title and author, please, OP!)</p>