- #1
pob1212
- 21
- 0
Hi all,
I'm a 3rd year undergrad at a top 20 university, not known for its math program, finishing up my degree in applied math and I've come to the conclusion that I behind in mathematical experience and ability when compared to other 3rd years undergrads at top math universities. The point of this post is for you to assess my current standing and offer guidance. Here's some background:
GPA ~ 3.7-8
Courses taken:
Multivariable Calc
Linear Algebra
Diffe Eq
Foundations
Numerical Analysis
Probability & Stat I
Courses to take:
Probability & Stat II
Partial Diff Eq
Optimization Theory
I have the option of getting a degree in applied math, but I'd have to take a year of real analysis and algebra, and a semester of complex variables and abstract vector spaces.
I have no research experience! (I know, bad)
I've also been the type of student who only studies math as it pertains to coursework.
I only decided last year (as a sophomore) that I wanted a degree in math. As for the future, I remain undecided. If I get the pure math degree (in addition to the applied), I perform very well in those courses, my mathematical ability improves greatly, namely with proofs, and I involve myself in research, then I'd consider myself capable of studying some area of pure math at the graduate level. Could be wrong...
I could also study something applied such as statistics...
Or I could not go to grad school and get some industry job
The point is, I'm behind the game and I don't know exactly what I want to do with math. However, I have decide my focus is math. Pure math is very attractive to me, but I'm currently weak in this area. I would very much like to go to grad school either way. I'd also like to get involved in an REU this summer and thought I could until I did a bit of research and found out how competitive they are, which sparked about an hour of self reflection and this post.
If you decide to respond, please do so honestly (I don't need sugar coated responses), and provide advice; its time for me to move forward. Again, where do I stand? what steps should I be taking? where am I lacking? etc...
Thanks a lot
I'm a 3rd year undergrad at a top 20 university, not known for its math program, finishing up my degree in applied math and I've come to the conclusion that I behind in mathematical experience and ability when compared to other 3rd years undergrads at top math universities. The point of this post is for you to assess my current standing and offer guidance. Here's some background:
GPA ~ 3.7-8
Courses taken:
Multivariable Calc
Linear Algebra
Diffe Eq
Foundations
Numerical Analysis
Probability & Stat I
Courses to take:
Probability & Stat II
Partial Diff Eq
Optimization Theory
I have the option of getting a degree in applied math, but I'd have to take a year of real analysis and algebra, and a semester of complex variables and abstract vector spaces.
I have no research experience! (I know, bad)
I've also been the type of student who only studies math as it pertains to coursework.
I only decided last year (as a sophomore) that I wanted a degree in math. As for the future, I remain undecided. If I get the pure math degree (in addition to the applied), I perform very well in those courses, my mathematical ability improves greatly, namely with proofs, and I involve myself in research, then I'd consider myself capable of studying some area of pure math at the graduate level. Could be wrong...
I could also study something applied such as statistics...
Or I could not go to grad school and get some industry job
The point is, I'm behind the game and I don't know exactly what I want to do with math. However, I have decide my focus is math. Pure math is very attractive to me, but I'm currently weak in this area. I would very much like to go to grad school either way. I'd also like to get involved in an REU this summer and thought I could until I did a bit of research and found out how competitive they are, which sparked about an hour of self reflection and this post.
If you decide to respond, please do so honestly (I don't need sugar coated responses), and provide advice; its time for me to move forward. Again, where do I stand? what steps should I be taking? where am I lacking? etc...
Thanks a lot