Need guidance/advice on post-secondary

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the considerations for selecting a university for undergraduate studies in physics, particularly focusing on the importance of the institution's reputation, available opportunities, and personal goals for future academic pursuits, including obtaining a PhD and becoming a professor.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about the importance of the university attended for an undergraduate degree, suggesting that it may not significantly impact future opportunities as long as the institution is "good enough."
  • Another participant highlights that while the university's reputation matters, factors such as research opportunities and networking can also play a role in graduate school admissions.
  • A participant notes that Canadian universities generally maintain uniform standards, and that many graduate programs do not require the GRE, which may influence the choice of institution.
  • It is mentioned that both the University of Waterloo and the University of Manitoba have respected programs, with Waterloo being somewhat more recognized.
  • Participants suggest that prospective students should consider individual factors, such as available research projects and personal interests, when choosing a university.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying opinions on the significance of the university attended for undergraduate studies. Some believe it is less critical, while others argue that specific opportunities and networking can influence future academic paths. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the overall importance of university choice.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the variability in undergraduate opportunities and the importance of personal goals, but do not reach a consensus on how these factors weigh against the reputation of the institution.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering undergraduate studies in physics, particularly those in Canada, and individuals interested in the factors influencing university selection for future academic careers.

cmcraes
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Hey all, I am currently a grade 11 student in Winnipeg (Canada), but am not sure which university to go to. I plan on going into physics and getting my BSc and then going to get my PhD (Lets not turn this into a discussion of the likely-hood of that please) I've read on a few other forums that it doesn't really matter where you go for your undergrad degree. Is this true?

Also I would like to go to U of Waterloo instead of U of Manitoba, but I'm still not completely sure of all the costs and possible scholarships I could receive. SO does it matter where i get my undergrad degree? My goal is to be a professor.

Also my current marks are all in the ninties, if that makes any difference of imput; Thanbks for any and all feedback!
 
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The place to get a UG degree is not that important as long as it is good enough.
I don't know much about Canadian physics except McGill, Toronto, and UBC, which are all top places.
I looked at the U of Waterloo website, and it looks quite good enough for you to get a good UG education
(whch depends more on you than them). Good luck.
 
Okay thank you!
 
To a point it matters where you go, as there is a difference in undergrad opportunities like research. Also, networking , while not important in and of itself for getting into a good phd program is also something to consider.
 
I think in the US there is a broader sprectrum between universities. In Canada the standards seem to be reasonably uniform. As a result, for example, most Canadian graduate schools don't require the GRE as part of their application process. Both Waterloo and Manitoba have well-respected programs. Waterloo is a little more famous.

So you really can pick a program/school based on factors that are more important to you individually. See if you can find out, for example, what opportunities are available for undergraduate students at each school. Are they getting involved in research projects? What are some of the projects students are currently working on and do those appeal to you?
 

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