About
Recreationally
I'm a mathematician, pianist, programmer, backpacker, weightlifter, martial artist, speedcuber, wannabe philosopher...
Professionally
Sucked into recreational mathematics [1] at an early age by the writings of Martin Gardner, I studied theoretical math in undergrad, with a focus on real analysis, graduating with my Bachelor's from the University of Kentucky in 2019.
Interests in game theory and card counting, along with the autobiography of Ed Thorp, convinced me that the financial markets provided the best outlet for my math skills. After spending two years in a finance PhD program, and coming to an appreciation for the contrast between academics and industry, I chose to leave with my Master's to pursue a job in trading.
From 2022 to 2024 I made markets in ETFs for a Chicago prop trading firm. Trading gave me the hands-on exposure to markets which I was looking for when I left academia. I had a blast. I liked the firm, and they treated me well.
During 2024 I spent my time doing a deep dive into full-stack web app development. After satisfying my intellectual curiosity, I moved to Colorado where I currently spend my time between doing finance & analytics for a medical clinic, and climbing mountains.
Technically
On GitHub as @alex-b1729.
- Python: Everything from data science, NLP, and ML, to CLI trading bot management apps, web apps, and generative art.
- Full-stack: Focused mostly on Django, PostgreSQL, and HTMX.
- DB: Experience with lot's of SQL flavors.
- I also play around with p5.js for web based generative art.
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Once, at a used bookstore, I bought the book Recreations in the Theory of Numbers. The old man at the counter assured me the title must mean "Re-creations", since surely no one would pursue math for enjoyment. ↩