Math Major: The Strange Looks I Get

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the perceptions faced by math majors, particularly when transitioning from a more commonly accepted major like Biology. Participants note that non-math or non-science majors often react with confusion or disbelief when someone expresses a passion for mathematics. This reaction stems from a general societal aversion to math, especially among those not pursuing technical fields. The conversation highlights the disconnect between math enthusiasts and those who struggle with the subject, emphasizing the unique challenges math majors encounter in social interactions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of academic major selection processes
  • Familiarity with societal perceptions of STEM fields
  • Knowledge of the challenges faced by math majors
  • Awareness of the differences between STEM and non-STEM disciplines
NEXT STEPS
  • Research societal attitudes towards STEM majors
  • Explore the psychological impact of major selection on students
  • Investigate the career opportunities available for math majors
  • Learn about the experiences of students transitioning between majors
USEFUL FOR

Math majors, academic advisors, students considering a major change, and anyone interested in understanding the social dynamics surrounding STEM education.

Mandanesss
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For all those math majors out there, is it just me or do people (non-math/physics majors) give you a strange look when you say that you're a math major? Just recently I changed my major from Biology to Math. Whenever someone asks me how the Bio major is treating me, I reply saying I switched to math and they give me the strangest look as though I've made such an odd decision? Then they ask why I would do such a thing. What's up with that? I bet if I had said I switched to Psychology or someother major, I wouldn't be getting such quizzical looks.
 
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non-math/physics/engineering/science majors usually don't understand why someone would want to major in something they dread so much. I don't think its the fact of the job opportunities for math majors but people in general dislike math if they aren't in an engineering//math major.

I had a few ME buddies and couldn't believe I was a comp sci major because they hated programming so much and never could understand how to grasp the concepts of programming and yet they were very good at physics/math.
 
The look they are giving you is called 'awe' :smile:
 

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