I got a B+ in Calculus 1, should I reconsider being a mathematician?

In summary, the conversation discusses the importance of not letting a B+ in Calculus 1 discourage someone from pursuing a math major. It is emphasized that success in higher level math classes, particularly those involving proofs, is a better indicator of aptitude as a mathematician. The conversation also encourages evaluating study methods and seeking help if needed. It is mentioned that grades do not determine one's potential in math and that a positive attitude towards the subject is important. Personal experiences and advice are shared, including the reminder that there are various fields where mathematics plays a significant role. The conversation ends with the suggestion to not let a single grade hold someone back from their passion for math.
  • #1
IntegrateMe
217
1
I go to a top 10 math school in the US and just received a B+ in Calculus 1 (the final was ridiculous!). Should I reconsider being a math major? I enjoyed the course considerably, but I feel that all math majors would breeze though it with an A.

Any thoughts?

Thanks.
 
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  • #2
Your performance in calculus I says nothing about your aptitude as a mathematician. The real math classes start later, when proofs are introduced.

However, you do have a problem. You should evaluate your study methods and what you know of the course. What went wrong?? (and don't blame the final) What could you improve??
 
  • #3
If you enjoy math, keep at it.
Perseverance should get you where you want to be.

There will be plenty of time to reevaluate what you want to do later if that is necessary.
 
  • #4
I currently have a c- or something in my year long introductory to calculus and analysis (proof based) and I'm still on the road to becoming a statistician. I don't think marks matter as much for me. I know a few people in statistics Canada and I'm social. I just need to do decent enough to get a statistics degree.

So really, just quit your whining. You can be an amateur mathematician as well. Besides, working for academia is probably VERY glorified. There's lots of administrative tasks to do and you probably won't even really be researching as much as you want.
 
  • #5
Math major and mathematician can mean different things. You can be a mathematician as a hobby, but not all math majors get there. To get there, you should be actively thinking about questions in mathematics, have research interests, etc.

If you would like a career in theoretical mathematics, be advised that there aren't many jobs (where we're talking someone who was the top of his/her class from a good university would still on average have a very hard time).

You should not reconsider being a math major, however, solely based on your performance in a calculus course. It's quite possible that you will be better at the proof-based classes than some of those who did better than you in this one. Nevertheless, the advice someone gave about thinking what went wrong is a good one. You have a long way to go.

Just remember that mathematics appears all over the place, and that too many people are somewhat narrow-minded about what they believe constitutes doing mathematics. Consider the various areas (statistics, physics, engineering, computer science, etc) which can have significant interplay with mathematics before you start considering yourself on track to becoming a "mathematician."
 
  • #6
IntegrateMe said:
I go to a top 10 math school in the US and just received a B+ in Calculus 1 (the final was ridiculous!). Should I reconsider being a math major? I enjoyed the course considerably, but I feel that all math majors would breeze though it with an A.

Any thoughts?

Thanks.

I don't know if you know, but a B is actually a good grade. Sure, you didn't get the A you wanted, but that doesn't mean you can't excel in math. Calc 2 will probably be harder, so assess what you missed in the course and nail that down now. In fact, it would be best if you started in the calc 2 material now so you can start off strong next semester.
 
  • #7
I got a B- in calc 1st semester and D- the second semester. of course I lost focus and stopped going to class. But it was also haa..ard.
 
  • #8
IntegrateMe said:
I go to a top 10 math school in the US and just received a B+ in Calculus 1 (the final was ridiculous!). Should I reconsider being a math major? I enjoyed the course considerably, but I feel that all math majors would breeze though it with an A.

Any thoughts?

Thanks.

......
 
  • #9
Don't let a B+ in calculus I hold you back. I had a B+ in calc II as an engineering major, before I switched to a mathematics degree track. Now I have a B.A. in math and I'm almost finished with an M.S. in math. So, the important mindset I have is to enjoy math and have a positive attitude about it. If you are a math major, be devoted to it. It will help you in your (math) classes.
 
  • #10
I got a B plus too.
Depends on why... is the material hard for you to understand, or do you just make ADHD errors while under pressure?
For me it was the latter... plus the stupefied brain-state that sitting through a lecture puts me in...
 

1. Should I be worried about getting a B+ in Calculus 1?

Getting a B+ in Calculus 1 does not necessarily mean you should reconsider being a mathematician. It is still a good grade and shows that you have a solid understanding of the material.

2. Is a B+ in Calculus 1 a bad grade for a mathematician?

No, a B+ is not considered a bad grade for a mathematician. It is a respectable grade and many successful mathematicians have received B+ grades in their courses.

3. Will a B+ in Calculus 1 affect my future career as a mathematician?

A B+ in Calculus 1 is not likely to significantly impact your future career as a mathematician. Employers and graduate schools will also consider other factors such as your overall GPA, research experience, and letters of recommendation.

4. Should I retake Calculus 1 to improve my grade?

Retaking Calculus 1 solely for the purpose of improving your grade is not necessary. It is important to focus on understanding the material and performing well in future courses.

5. What steps can I take to improve my performance in Calculus and become a successful mathematician?

If you are passionate about becoming a mathematician, there are several steps you can take to improve your performance in Calculus and achieve your goals. These include seeking help from professors or tutors, actively participating in class, practicing regularly, and exploring other areas of mathematics to find your strengths and interests.

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