Margaret Smagorinsky
American Meteorological Society Oral History Project
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On January 2, 2006, Kristine Harper, Ronald Doel, and Terry Smagorinsky conducted an interview with Margaret Smagorinsky at her home in Hillsborough, New Jersey, for the American Meteorological Society's Tape Recorded Interview Project. Margaret discusses her childhood in Brooklyn, New York, including her family background, education, and early life experiences. She reflects on her father’s work as a plumber and her role as his helper, as well as the influence of her parents’ differing political and religious perspectives. Margaret recounts her academic journey, starting school early, excelling in mathematics, and eventually attending Brooklyn College. She shares insights into her college experience during the Great Depression, emphasizing the affordability of her education and its impact on her intellectual development. Margaret also highlights her encounters with diverse communities and her growing interest in the theory of numbers.
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