Physics vs Math: Deciding Grad School Path

[creepypasta13]

So I'm about to apply to grad schools in either math or physics, as I did my undergrad in physics and applied math. I wanted to hear the inputs of people who had to decide between the two and what your decision was

As for me, my favorite classes were proof-based linear algebra and statistical mechanics (not the thermo part). My next favorites were quantum mechanics and real analysis. I didn't like thermo, proof-based Fourier analysis, and especially my lab courses. I didn't take the physics electives classes I'm really wanted to take, such as astrophysics, solid-state, optics, nuclear, or atomic. Thats because during the last couple semesters of undergrad, I had some outside distractions, some of which were personal and family related (and thus I felt very pressured to graduate asap, and thus do the bare minimum course requirements), and some were due to distractions in my social life. The latter was why I did really poorly in honors abstract algebra and ended up dropping the class. I took linear algebra and stat mech early on, which is why I did the best in those and really enjoyed them. Because I did well in linear algebra and real analysis, I thought I might have what it takes to be a pure mathematician

I also used to be really concerned with job opportunities, which is why I chose applied math instead of pure math. But after working a bit, I now realize the importance of choosing your passions. So at this point, I'm not really sure whether to apply to physics or applied math departments. I suppose I could do mathematical physics, but that's mostly done in pure math depts, right? I don't know if I should give pure math another try considering I dropped out of abstract algebra. I didn't drop out from any other course. And physics probably just seemed more bland than what I had thought because I didn't get to take the classes that looked the most interesting. E&M and mechanics aren't as interesting to me as the areas I listed above such as solid-state. They seemed really interesting from what I saw from my modern physics lower-div class and what I've read about them. I did 2 research projects related to materials and solid-state, so I'm pretty sure that I would like the course. But I can't stand the thought of having to take another lab course. Also, if it means anything, I had a 3.9 gpa in my math courses, and 3.6 in physics.

Again, I'd like to hear the opinions of those who were in a similar situation and what path you chose

 

[Carl Bennett]

I would prefer to do math undergrad because I think the math would make me a stronger physicist. But I'm not sure how it would affect admissions. Really it rather get into a MIT with a physics undergrad than a state U with a math undergrad. Obviously were I attend grad school will have a greater correlation to my physics ability than if I did math or physics undergrad, so admissions is top priority to me. If I was to do a double major with philosophy too then I'm not sure. I would be able to take enough physics courses. But since I haven't even looked into anything resembling a schedule I really have no idea.