Oakland Community College is proving once again that it adds up to excellence—ranking #1 in the Midwest and Top 10 nationwide in a prestigious annual math competition.  

Nearly 100 OCC student “mathletes” competed in the American Mathematical Association of Two-Year Colleges (AMATYC) Student Mathematics League, adding up to earn top spots among nearly 200 colleges and thousands of students. The national competition includes a two-part Student Mathematics League test taken during the Fall and Winter semesters.  

No demanding prep, just pure talent 

What sets OCC apart? According to Julie Gunkelman, OCC Mathematics Faculty Member and Math League Facilitator, it’s all about OCC’s student talent.

“There is no preparation involved,” she said. “Some schools train for it, but we just have smart students at OCC!” 

Students who enter the competition take a one-hour AMATYC exam in Fall and Winter semesters, with 20 challenging, non-routine, multiple-choice problems. A background in college algebra is needed, but no advanced mathematics experience is required. 

Students showcase their problem-solving skills 

Ken Williams, OCC’s Academic Dean of Mathematics/Sciences, said the test is designed to spotlight students’ problem-solving skills.  

“It’s difficult, but it highlights students who understand the concepts and think critically solving problems they might not have seen before,” he said. “I’m really proud of our students and faculty for their consistent success in this competition. They have a great record for finishing at the top!” 

A team effort 

While Gunkelman facilitates the test at OCC, it’s a College-wide collaboration and team effort. Faculty members Jeff Parent and Daniel Puig-Pey (Royal Oak campus), Tanya Reynolds (Orchard Ridge), and Linda Britton and Barbie Hoag (Auburn Hills) proctor the exam with the help of several other dedicated faculty members.  

Scholarships for high scorers 

Those who score well on the tests are eligible for the Scott Vance Memorial Math Scholarship, offered through the OCC Foundation. This year two OCC students received the scholarship-Jose Pablo Guadarrama and Mardig Khatchadourian.

Each year, up to six scholarships are awarded to help cover tuition, fees and educational expenses. The scholarship honors the legacy of Scott Vance, a former OCC student, tutor and supplemental math instructor at the College.  

Get involved 

Full-time OCC students without a prior degree from another college are eligible to participate. Students who are interested in competing in the 2025/2026 competition are encouraged to contact OCC math faculty for more information. Flyers with test dates and a registration QR code will also be posted on campuses closer to exam dates. 

About OCC    

Celebrating 60 years, Oakland Community College (OCC) has educated over one million students since 1965. OCC offers more than 80 degree and certificate programs and is committed to student success with affordable tuition, support services, flexible class options and top transfer opportunities. The College serves more than 20,000 students annually while advancing our community through education, training and career support. OCC is nationally recognized as Michigan’s top online college, and seventh in the U.S., by Newsweek’s  America’s Top Online Colleges 2025. Learn more at oaklandcc.edu.      

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Media Contact: Marketing & Communications | (248) 341-2020 | contactus@oaklandcc.edu