ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I would like thank my thesis advisor, Dr. Avishek Mallick. He has helped me in numerous ways by giving me his advice, support, and guidance throughout the entire project. He has also assisted me by writing numerous recommendation letters and by challenging me in his classes. I would also like to thank the other members of my thesis committee: Dr. Laura Adkins and Dr. Alfred Akinsete. Dr. Akinsete was always available to help me and to offer advice and is the most-wonderful chair of the math department. Dr. Laura Adkins is a wonderful professor who is always willing to help and answer questions that I may have. Two other professors that I would like to thank are Dr. Gerald Rubin and Dr. Scott Sarra. Dr. Rubin is the professor who has challenged me the most and pushed me the hardest. I have learned so much from his classes, and I feel that he has thoroughly prepared me for a doctoral program. Also, his constant help, support, and advice on various situations are greatly appreciated. He is the professor who has made the largest impression on me throughout my time at Marshall University. Dr. Sarra is a professor who also has challenged me with his classes. Also, his wonderful help and support as my teaching mentor helped me through my teaching experience. I also appreciate both of these professors for their help in writing recommendation letters for me