Graduate School for Mathematics Ph.D

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the considerations and factors involved in applying for a Mathematics Ph.D. program, including the importance of research interests, financial support, and the role of standardized tests like the GRE. Participants share their experiences and seek advice on selecting graduate schools and assistantship opportunities.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a strong desire to pursue a Ph.D. and teach at the university level, seeking advice on graduate school selection and assistantship opportunities.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of research interests, school reputation, and financial support when choosing a graduate program.
  • Some participants suggest that the choice of school should also depend on the specific mathematical topics offered and the fit for the applicant's level of preparation.
  • Concerns are raised about the relevance of GRE scores, with one participant questioning whether they are still heavily considered in admissions compared to the past.
  • Another participant advocates for aiming for high GRE scores, particularly in the quantitative section, while also challenging the notion that standardized tests like the SAT are no longer considered by colleges.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of research interests and financial support in selecting a graduate program. However, there is disagreement regarding the current significance of GRE scores in the admissions process, with differing opinions on their relevance and the necessity of taking them before or after applying.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention the potential impact of the applicant's undergraduate institution on their graduate school prospects, particularly regarding the quality of the mathematics program and the need for standardized testing. There are also varying views on the importance of graduate placement records and how they relate to job market conditions.

Who May Find This Useful

Prospective graduate students in mathematics, educators considering further academic pursuits, and individuals interested in the graduate school application process may find this discussion relevant.

rbzima
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So, I've been doing a lot of thinking lately and I really, honestly believe that this is my calling in life. Not just to get the Ph.D, but to teach at an upper education level with additional research as well.

I'm just starting the process of looking at various institutions, but my general background is that of a liberal arts college, double majored in Adolescent Education and Mathematics.

Furthermore, what do you guys know about various assistantships for various colleges? Do they generally let first year graduate students be teaching assistants for professors?

Lastly, what specifically should I be looking for in a graduate school? I know that when you start looking at undergraduate programs, you aren't really looking for your field: it's more concern with faculty and environment than straight up reputation nationally. So how should I approach this? Any advice would be absolutely fantastic!
 
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What is your research interest? That's the most important thing to consider. Second is the reputation of the school, and third would be financial support. Most schools offer TA positions for first-year grad students.

The other thing to consider is which liberal arts college you went to. Some are great, but if the mathematics program is particularly bad, you might need to take the math GRE. Was your math degree a BS, or did it focus on Education?
 
which subjects did you like most? algebra? analysis? topology?

you may want to choose a school partly based on what topics are well represented there.

it is also important to find a good fit for your level of preparation.

financial support is also important, and their record of placing graduates may be relevant, although this can vary with the job climate as much as the quality of the school.
 
Well, I personally prefer analysis topics, both real and complex. Furthermore, the grad program I just found has a fantastic TA paygrade compared to other grad programs as well, so this might very well be a reality for me in the next couple years.

One final question:
Do grad schools tend to look at GRE's as much as they have in the past. Has it essentially become like the SAT: a more traditional test not really looked at by colleges anyway? Lastly, should I take the GRE's before applying or after applying?
 
i look for as high a gre as possible. i like to see 800 in quantitative.

and who said sat's are not looked at? i think they are.
 

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