Dr. Renier Mendoza is an Associate Professor of Applied Mathematics at the Institute of Mathematics, University of the Philippines Diliman, where he earned his MS in Applied Mathematics. He holds a doctorate from the Karl-Franzens University of Graz in Austria, and recently completed postdoctoral work at Konkuk University in Seoul, South Korea. His research focuses on numerical optimization, numerical analysis, partial differential equations, delay differential equations, inverse problems, image processing, and mathematical modeling. We talked about negative perceptions about mathematics, mathematics in work and everyday life, challenges in doing mathematical research in the Philippines, applying math in environmental conservation, reasons to pursue a graduate course in mathematics, and more. How to contact Dr. Renier: Facebook: fb.com/renier.mendoza Email: [email protected] Interested in DOST scholarship opportunities? Check them out here: https://www.sei.dost.gov.ph/index.php/programs-and-projects/scholarships/postgraduate-scholarships Attention, graduate students and early-career mathematicians from the Philippines and neighboring countries! The 2023 SEAMS School on Scientific Computing for Differential Equations and Applications will take place at the UP Diliman Institute of Mathematics from November 22 to December 1, 2023. It aims to bring together experts in numerical analysis and scientific computing to give introductory lectures on recent numerical techniques in solving ordinary and partial differential equations, and their applications. Funded by the Southeast Asian Mathematical Society through the support of CIMPA, it involves lecture series and hands-on computational exercises. Registration is FREE, but slots are limited. Participants from developing countries in Southeast Asia and nearby regions may also apply for financial support for airfare and/or accommodation. For more information, visit https://math.upd.edu.ph/seamsschoolmanila2023/.