It was the summer of 1988 when I first encountered Mathematica. I was a pre-freshman in Electrical Engineering. I was taking part in the summer preparatory program. As I was trying out different software programs in the computer lab, I came across Mathematica. I used Mathematica to help visualize various problems in my calculus class. Later, I stumbled upon The Mathematica Book and The Mathematica Journal. I was simply amazed by all of the applications and solutions that Mathematica and mathematics in general has to offer. (I was fortunate that I had learned Mathematica before I learned C because Mathematica allowed for elegant types of programs without using loops that I was able to master.) I enjoyed using Mathematica so much that I made it my key tool in my doctoral dissertation for the analysis of electronic devices. Again, Mathematica introduced me to another new world—this time mathematical typesetting—the ability to make beautiful mathematical documents.

Now the real joy of using Mathematica is the ability to just relax and brainstorm with Mathematica just as I would with pencil and paper—a truly “mind like water” experience!

Congratulations on your 25th—great job team. May you be blessed with 25 more!