“It was a turning point in my life,” says an IMPA Tech graduate

Ryan Kevin da Costa, 19, is one of the young people who saw IMPA Tech as an opportunity to turn his passion for numbers into a promising future. A native of Patos (PB), the student overcame his own insecurities to join the second class of the Bachelor’s program in Mathematics, Technology, and Innovation, leaving rural Paraíba in pursuit of his dream. Learn more about his story at #BeyondTheEquations.

Ever since childhood, Ryan stood out for his dedication and curiosity. “I was a ‘nerdy’ student, a bit antisocial, but I liked to study and was passionate about numbers and doing math. It was always something I enjoyed doing,” he recalls. However, his journey into the world of science olympiads began quite unassuming. Although he took the OBMEP (Brazilian Public School Math Olympiad) back in 6th grade, he admits that he didn’t understand the true significance of the test at the time.

The turning point came in his sophomore year of high school. After putting his studies on the back burner during his teenage years, Ryan got back on track and won his first bronze medal at OBMEP. The young man completed his studies at the Lynaldo Cavalcanti de Albuquerque Comprehensive Technical School (ECIT), where he earned a technical degree in sales.

“I realized quite late that the Olympiad could open doors for me. I wasn’t confident I’d win a medal, but I ended up taking bronze,” he says. The award led him to participate in PIC Jr. (Scientific Initiation Program), where he met other medalists and broadened his horizons. With the crucial support of teachers who shaped his journey—such as his math teacher Wéllisson—Ryan dedicated himself even more and secured his second bronze medal in his junior year.

Before enrolling at IMPA Tech, Ryan had actually started a bachelor’s degree in mathematics at UEPB (State University of Paraíba). However, his desire to study at the new institution in Rio de Janeiro had already taken precedence ever since he learned about the program on social media in 2024. “I had decided that I wanted to study here. Despite my insecurities and doubts—since I knew I’d definitely be ‘competing’ with people more experienced than me—I was determined to get in,” he says.

However, being accepted came with the challenge of being far from home and family. “I had never left town to be away from my parents before, so it was hard, but we talked it over and they supported me.” For the student, the institute’s financial support was crucial in making this move. “The scholarships we receive here are essential for us to be here without any worries. My parents worked their whole lives to support my family, and things weren’t easy.”

Today, having adapted to the academic routine, Ryan has no doubt that he made the right choice. “I can’t lie. Coming here was a turning point in my life. I’ve improved a lot and I’m still growing. The hands-on classes are a major advantage: we have the theory class, and then we have this opportunity to ask questions and better absorb the material.”

In addition to his intense study routine, which combines math, computer science, and physics, Ryan also takes advantage of the cultural activities organized by the NAP (Psycho-Pedagogical Support Center). “The NAP’s activities are really cool. It’s a chance to explore new places and unwind. The first time I went to the theater was here, and I also had the chance to visit Maracanã Stadium.”

Looking ahead, the Paraíba native plans to draw on his technical education and the cutting-edge knowledge he gained at IMPA Tech to launch a business: he wants to found a startup focused on financial solutions. “I want to create a company to help people manage their finances—something simple, but which most Brazilians don’t do.”

Proud of the path he has forged through resilience, Ryan leaves a message for future undergraduate students: “Although my academic journey hasn’t been filled with awards, being able to study mathematics at IMPA’s high level of excellence has been—and continues to be—a dream come true for me. I hope my story can inspire someone. Don’t give up on pursuing your dreams.”