Rethinking engineering and go something more pure?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the challenges faced by a student contemplating a shift from engineering to a career in actuarial science due to poor performance in calculus-physics exams. Despite achieving high grades in earlier math courses, the student struggles with advanced topics, prompting concerns about their academic path. The conversation highlights the rigorous testing required to become an actuary in the U.S., emphasizing that actuarial exams can be more challenging than undergraduate coursework. The need for a strong mathematical foundation and resilience in the face of academic difficulties is underscored.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of calculus concepts, particularly Calculus 2
  • Familiarity with physics principles, especially algebra-based physics
  • Knowledge of actuarial science and its examination process
  • Basic programming skills, particularly in introductory programming courses
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the requirements for becoming an actuary, including necessary exams and study materials
  • Explore advanced calculus topics and resources to strengthen understanding
  • Investigate effective study techniques for physics to improve exam performance
  • Consider joining study groups or tutoring for challenging subjects like calculus and physics
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students in engineering or mathematics fields, aspiring actuaries, and individuals seeking strategies to improve their performance in challenging math and physics courses.

phyEngineer
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Sould I rethink engineering and go something that deals with math and programming?
I just got my frist exam of my calculus 2 which was 71% =(
and on my calculus-physics exam I got 36% =...( (cry) (I think it was because I never taken AP algbra based physics class)
or
Is my dad right that I need to give college and go become a blue collar worker.

I do not understand that I got A in calculus 1 (hardest professor in the college), A in precalculus(hardest professor in the college), and A in into to programming. (those terms I got a 3.2 and 3.4 ?_?)

what sould I do I am doing problems like crazy and losing sleep over these classes.

I am thinking as a backup plan to engineering is to get really good at Math and do actuary stuff.

I am lost
 
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What were the class averages on the exams? I had a rocky start to physics myself, but I'm doing fine now.
 
An actuarial job is a business job where you must know a particular area of math well. It is not a math job you perform at a business.

If you’re in the US, then to become an actuary you will be required to take a battery of tests, some of which are far more difficult than any test you will take in any undergraduate class. Exam 4/C was more difficult than any test I took in graduate level physics (though the material, in general, was not).
 

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