Ferruccio Guidi

Ferruccio Guidi, from Venezia, Italy, was born on May 4, 1969. He began The Institutes program as a four-year-old with a profound midbrain injury. He was unable to walk due to profound respiratory, balance, and coordination problems that are characteristic of midbrain-injured children.

However, Ferruccio has always been intellectually excellent and through high school was taught exclusively at home by his mother. After completing high school with the highest mathematical scores, he began to study advanced mathematics at Padua University.

In 1996, Ferruccio, who is fluent in English, wrote:

"My main interest is the study of mathematics and in, above all, the study of logic. I am almost through with my university studies and I am now preparing two compulsory articles and my thesis to be discussed with the supervisors. The thesis is not compulsory, but if I prepare one I'll have higher marks when I obtain the degree. The title of my thesis is "The Third Theorem by Goëdel and Kreisel within the Theory of Types of Martin-Löf." The titles of the articles are:
1) Some applications of the fast Fourier transform to the polynomial calculation.
2) The modified bordering method.

"My studies in Padua have been very hard, but I never took advantage of the laws which grant facilitation for people with physical problems. I always compared myself with the best students and I succeeded in becoming part of the small research group in logic mathematics guided by the world-known Professor Sambin. As part of this group I participate in congresses and seminars.

"Once I receive my university degree, probably in the spring of 1998, I would like to contest for a doctorate in mathematics or in computer science, which would take four years. In this way, I will have the chance to stay in the university research group.

"In addition to my studies, I very much care for all the friends I have made during those years with the faculty, and I join in meetings, birthday parties, and reunions.

"I enjoy very much creating computer programs, including utilities, games, operating systems, programs to draw fractals, and compilation of a language that I created.

"During my very little free time I write short stories and I am also working on a novel. Every once in a while I go to the opera, and I also enjoy symphonic music. When possible, I plan to take some trips in Italy and in Europe."

In the spring of 1997, during Ferruccio's revisit to The Institutes in Philadelphia, the International School students enjoyed the privilege of attending a high-level mathematics class taught by Ferruccio.

Over the years, his superb effort and dedication to realizing his potential has inspired parents and children alike.