The media's portrayal of the crazy-nerd mathematician is one I dislike, but have come to terms with. I guess I find it so ridiculous that I am not bothered. Much worse is the stereotype that all mathematicians love numbers, and thus are excited by birthdays that are 'perfect' (like 28) or dates (like March 14 or today). I blame high school teachers. The idea that mathematicians think this stuff is cool is a more evil stereotype, not because it is less true (in fact many mathematicians get hyped about numbers) but because I think this stuff is stupid*. At UIC there is a set of faculty/grad students who feel it is necessary to spam the department everytime one of these dates occurs, to which someone else feels obligated to respond there are no uninteresting dates, including a proof. Afterwards I reflect on how lucky I am that my 12th floor window doesn't open, so I cannot hurl myself out.*The world revolves around me**, thus how things affect my life is a paramount consideration.
**I dare you to prove otherwise.**
***please not in the comments.****
**** Four nested footnotes, really?
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