"Even mathematicians will tell you that mathematics has a bit of an image problem, particularly in the U.S." That is something that strikes me constantly and I

"Even mathematicians will tell you that mathematics has a bit of an image problem, particularly in the U.S." That is something that strikes me constantly and I try to understand. I was amazed the first time I heard the phrase "just do the math" to imply do the menial calculations et cetera. This embodies the negative perception and misunderstanding that a lot of people have in general, but perhaps at a different level entirely in the U.S. What is more surprising is this is despite a math degree opening a lot of opportunities in the U.S. In comparison, in a lot of countries one can easily be stuck between teaching or research (if they are lucky and have the passion), or abandoning their degree. Consider yourselves lucky to have been exposed early on to math, is not a good approach or feeling to have. I think the demeanor of "you are good at it, or you are just not" is too damaging to the field in general. People that are passionate, innately or via some environmental factor acting as nurtury and "pylon", are perhaps going to persevere, like in other fields. Nobody told a kid that they should stop drawing, writing, or playing the guitar or piano, because they are bad at it. Math though apparently...