Pure mathematics vs Mechanical engineering

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the decision-making process for choosing a major between pure mathematics and mechanical engineering at the University of Waterloo. Participants explore personal interests, societal perceptions, and the implications of each field on future career prospects.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • The original poster (OP) expresses a strong interest in mechanical engineering due to a lifelong passion for building and machines, but also feels drawn to mathematics and fears not being "smart enough" for a career in academia.
  • Some participants suggest that societal values favor careers in business and law over engineering and mathematics, questioning the respect accorded to these fields.
  • One participant argues that the OP should not dismiss mathematics based on perceived intelligence and encourages pursuing what they love rather than societal expectations.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of personal motivation for studying mathematics, suggesting that accolades should not be the primary reason for pursuing a career in the field.
  • Concerns are raised about the job market for pure mathematics majors compared to mechanical engineering, with some suggesting that practical applications may lead to better job security.
  • There is a discussion about the psychological pressures associated with success in academia and the importance of pursuing interests for personal fulfillment rather than external validation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the value of mathematics versus engineering, with some advocating for pursuing passion regardless of societal perceptions, while others highlight practical considerations like job security. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing perspectives on the merits of each field.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the importance of researching career prospects and the potential risks associated with pursuing certain majors, indicating that the decision may depend on individual circumstances and market conditions.

  • #31
deRham said:
Ultimately, a PhD is one way to train to be a professional researcher in that field. Hence, you ought to ask yourself throughout undergrad what questions interest you. Do you care about spending years answering questions about mathematical structures with only marginal interaction with other fields, or would you rather be somewhere in the intersection between certain areas?

I am interested algebra, number theory, and analysis
 
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  • #32
ode_to_joy said:
I am interested algebra, number theory, and analysis
That is so broad it is almost meaningless.
 
  • #33
jk said:
That is so broad it is almost meaningless.

well, I am not in undergraduate yet but concepts like groups sounds facinating to me
 
  • #34
jk said:
That is so broad it is almost meaningless.

I am interested in Geometry (Differential, Algebraic) , Topology, Analysis, Number theory (p-adic) mathematical physics and fundementals. The only area i dislike is combinatorics, and that is probably because i am so terrible at it. Its a shame we humans need to rest and eat ::frown:
 
Last edited:
  • #35
Functor97 said:
Its a shame we humans need to rest and eat ::frown:

If you replaced "we" with "those", you'd sound almost like some kind of management consultant ;)
 
  • #36
chiro said:
Having said, I would urge you to consider micromass's advice and not get into mathematics for the glory, because you will probably end up with depression or something akin to that just by probabilities alone.

I never thought I'd see the day...I thought kids would be wanting to be rebecca black or something these days.
 

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