Schools Grad School Advice for Physics & Math Double Major

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A freshman at the University of Illinois at Chicago is pursuing a double major in physics, with a focus on astrophysics, and mathematics, planning to graduate one to two years early due to college credits earned in high school. The student intends to engage in research over the next few years but acknowledges time constraints due to the accelerated graduation timeline. Seeking advice on strengthening a graduate school application, particularly for top institutions like the University of Chicago, the student expresses concern about planning so early in their academic journey. The discussion highlights the unpredictability of future academic interests and the importance of remaining flexible in educational goals.
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Hello, so I am a freshman at a medium-sized state school that is not particularly known for its physics program (University of Illinois at Chicago). Due to some college credit I received in high school, I am set to graduate anywhere from one to two years early. I am a double major in physics (looking to focus on astrophysics) and mathematics. I plan to take part in research over the next two or three years but I will be limited in time for the research due to my plans to graduate early. I was just wondering for any advice that would help me build out my application for graduate school, anything is helpful! Thank you!

P.S.- I am looking to apply to University of Chicago as my main choice, along with a few other top tens, as well as a few backup schools.
 
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This seems way too early to be worrying about an application for graduate school. Do you know the old saying, "There's many a slip 'tween the cup and the lip"? Too much can happen between now and then to make for much meaningful planning now.

Who knows, you might decide to major in psych by that time!
 

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