9 answers
Addison
Student
Gainesville, Florida
1
Question
Asked
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I'm stuck in my math major, what should I do?
First I'll share some quick background. Currently, I'm a third-year undergrad at University and I initially declared a math major. I enjoyed calculus and all the computational math classes I have taken so far. Still, now I'm taking the more theoretical abstract math and I find that not only do I not enjoy it but I really struggle through it. At first, I was considering an actuarial career, I even interviewed with some companies and was working on passing my first exam, but I quickly became burned out and found that I wasn't enjoying that either.
I love accounting as I'm taking Financial Accounting this semester which would have been a part of my Actuarial Science minor. What's unfortunate however is I really can't switch out of my math major, my uni's policies make it impossible. I already have 96 credits because I obtained a bunch in high school (which are irrelevant to my degree) and this makes the idea of transferring kinda hard as well. I would still need to take 8 more math classes to finish my degree, and I'm scared of that idea. I'm assuming becoming an accountant is still possible if I do a minor and then do a Macc afterward, so is this likely the best thing possible for me at the moment? Are there other jobs for math majors that could potentially suit me? I'm okay with coding, it's not my favorite but I like SQL. Any advice from someone who had to stick out a degree they didn't really love? Thank you in advance.
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9 answers
Larry Siegel
Government Liaison, Non-profit fundraising, Non-profit operation
21
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Larry’s Answer
Addison -- I'll make it simple. Look into a Liberal Arts degree with emphasis on literature, writing and foreign language. In other words, expand your mind while you are in college.
Your broadcasting talents will become evident as you move through college. Extra-curricular activities such as the school radio station or sports game broadcasting may be available. Activities like this and others not related to broadcasting, such as model UN or debate team, will expand your mind and experience.
Interning at a local media outlet while you are in college is a good idea, if it is a possibility. In other words, use your college years to learn where you fit into the broadcasting world.
Your broadcasting talents will become evident as you move through college. Extra-curricular activities such as the school radio station or sports game broadcasting may be available. Activities like this and others not related to broadcasting, such as model UN or debate team, will expand your mind and experience.
Interning at a local media outlet while you are in college is a good idea, if it is a possibility. In other words, use your college years to learn where you fit into the broadcasting world.
That's not the answer for this student. I am assuming it's meant for the person with the podcasting/media interests.
Karin P.
eva emmer
designer, writer, producer, actor
16
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
eva’s Answer
Hi Addison,
Here are a few thoughts if at all possible.
1 - A good number of universities these days allow for students to design their own degrees, that's assuming you have a combo or something specific in mind. If you do, taking that matter up with your university, it may result in them succumbing to the proposal.
2 - Is it possible to find what you like in another school and transfer over?
3 - At worst I would stick with the math for 2 reasons... Firstly because with a math degree you can go into any industry you like (even NASA) as almost all of them have and need math (even all luxury brands)! Secondly because if you know math, you can do accounting or it's a quick course. Finally, math to careers is a little like piano to musical instruments, you can always go on and obtain your masters in whatever you like.
Here is a quick story for you. I'm not much of a mathematician and I came to sciences after a degree in arts. One semester, our professor made all the class which she divided into groups enter a math competition. I started my research to find something interesting, one thing led to another and I ran into a program on PBS about math and origami. From there we based our whole project on that and ended up discovering how a biologist used origami to design a small object for a heart bypass, how engineers used origami to design elements used in space exploration such as the Star-shade and how origami came from nature and how all the nature around us pivots. We won!
Sometimes you have to look at something with a different perspective and you may discover something you like.
I hope that this helps a little and bravo for getting this far!
Eva
😊
Here are a few thoughts if at all possible.
1 - A good number of universities these days allow for students to design their own degrees, that's assuming you have a combo or something specific in mind. If you do, taking that matter up with your university, it may result in them succumbing to the proposal.
2 - Is it possible to find what you like in another school and transfer over?
3 - At worst I would stick with the math for 2 reasons... Firstly because with a math degree you can go into any industry you like (even NASA) as almost all of them have and need math (even all luxury brands)! Secondly because if you know math, you can do accounting or it's a quick course. Finally, math to careers is a little like piano to musical instruments, you can always go on and obtain your masters in whatever you like.
Here is a quick story for you. I'm not much of a mathematician and I came to sciences after a degree in arts. One semester, our professor made all the class which she divided into groups enter a math competition. I started my research to find something interesting, one thing led to another and I ran into a program on PBS about math and origami. From there we based our whole project on that and ended up discovering how a biologist used origami to design a small object for a heart bypass, how engineers used origami to design elements used in space exploration such as the Star-shade and how origami came from nature and how all the nature around us pivots. We won!
Sometimes you have to look at something with a different perspective and you may discover something you like.
I hope that this helps a little and bravo for getting this far!
Eva
😊
Edwin Anthony Joseph
Principal IT-Cloud Architect
10
Answers
Pune, Maharashtra, India
Updated
Edwin Anthony’s Answer
I dont understand in todays global education system the a degree is only way to valdiate your knowledge
However i started of as Maths and Science Major in dint love math that much hence i failed so i couldnt pursue my love scince coz i dint want maths
eventually i found in new love in Economics and completed my degree in Commerce
Insipte of that I am IT-Architect
here is what is found is trick to play the game have degree to prove you have required education levels
Then do Skill based training of the Skill you want to aquire or love doing
get professional certifcation in thoose skills
However i started of as Maths and Science Major in dint love math that much hence i failed so i couldnt pursue my love scince coz i dint want maths
eventually i found in new love in Economics and completed my degree in Commerce
Insipte of that I am IT-Architect
here is what is found is trick to play the game have degree to prove you have required education levels
Then do Skill based training of the Skill you want to aquire or love doing
get professional certifcation in thoose skills
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3844
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Addison,
I realize you're grappling with your math major and uncertain about your future steps. It's tough when you're wrestling with the abstract, theoretical parts of math that don't necessarily match your passions or career aspirations. But don't worry, there are several strategies you can employ to steer through this situation and find a path more suited to you.
Think about your interests and objectives: Spend some time pondering your genuine interests and career targets. Think about the subjects or fields of study that truly ignite your enthusiasm and align with your long-term goals. This introspection will help you determine the right direction to take.
Investigate other possibilities within your math major: Even if you're not fond of theoretical math, there could be other areas within the discipline that might appeal to you more. Math is a vast field with numerous subfields like applied mathematics, statistics, operations research, or mathematical finance. Look into these different areas and see if any of them align with your interests. You might discover a specialty within math that blends your love for accounting with computational abilities.
Talk to academic advisors: Connect with academic advisors in both the math and accounting departments at your university. Share your situation and concerns with them. They can offer valuable advice, suggest alternative routes, or even assist you in exploring the possibility of adding an accounting minor or double major to your math major.
Think about a minor or double major: If you're genuinely enthusiastic about accounting, consider adding an accounting minor or double major to your math major. Consult with academic advisors to understand the requirements and practicality of such a combination. This way, you can continue your math major while also acquiring knowledge and skills in accounting.
Search for accounting-related internships or part-time jobs: To delve deeper into your interest in accounting, consider looking for internships or part-time jobs in the field. This will give you hands-on experience and help you ascertain if accounting is indeed the right choice for you. Plus, it can boost your resume and increase your attractiveness for future career opportunities.
Network with professionals: Engage with professionals in the accounting field and seek their advice. Participate in career fairs, networking events, or join accounting-related professional organizations. Establishing connections with professionals can provide valuable industry insights and potentially pave the way for future opportunities.
Think about postgraduate studies or certifications: If you discover that your passion is more for accounting than mathematics, you might consider pursuing a postgraduate degree in accounting or earning relevant certifications such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). These credentials can amplify your knowledge and standing in the accounting field.
Adopt a growth mindset: Remember, feeling stuck is a common experience for many students during their academic journey. Adopt a growth mindset and see this as a chance for personal and intellectual development. Challenges and setbacks often lead to new discoveries and alternative paths that you might not have considered before.
Remember, it's never too late to tweak your academic path and chase what genuinely interests you. Take the time to explore different options, seek advice from advisors, and network with professionals in the field. By doing so, you can find a path that aligns with your interests, skills, and long-term goals.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications/Domain Names:
The College Board - www.collegeboard.org
The Princeton Review - www.princetonreview.com
U.S. News & World Report - www.usnews.com
MAY GOD BLESS YOUR EFFORTS,
JAMES
I realize you're grappling with your math major and uncertain about your future steps. It's tough when you're wrestling with the abstract, theoretical parts of math that don't necessarily match your passions or career aspirations. But don't worry, there are several strategies you can employ to steer through this situation and find a path more suited to you.
Think about your interests and objectives: Spend some time pondering your genuine interests and career targets. Think about the subjects or fields of study that truly ignite your enthusiasm and align with your long-term goals. This introspection will help you determine the right direction to take.
Investigate other possibilities within your math major: Even if you're not fond of theoretical math, there could be other areas within the discipline that might appeal to you more. Math is a vast field with numerous subfields like applied mathematics, statistics, operations research, or mathematical finance. Look into these different areas and see if any of them align with your interests. You might discover a specialty within math that blends your love for accounting with computational abilities.
Talk to academic advisors: Connect with academic advisors in both the math and accounting departments at your university. Share your situation and concerns with them. They can offer valuable advice, suggest alternative routes, or even assist you in exploring the possibility of adding an accounting minor or double major to your math major.
Think about a minor or double major: If you're genuinely enthusiastic about accounting, consider adding an accounting minor or double major to your math major. Consult with academic advisors to understand the requirements and practicality of such a combination. This way, you can continue your math major while also acquiring knowledge and skills in accounting.
Search for accounting-related internships or part-time jobs: To delve deeper into your interest in accounting, consider looking for internships or part-time jobs in the field. This will give you hands-on experience and help you ascertain if accounting is indeed the right choice for you. Plus, it can boost your resume and increase your attractiveness for future career opportunities.
Network with professionals: Engage with professionals in the accounting field and seek their advice. Participate in career fairs, networking events, or join accounting-related professional organizations. Establishing connections with professionals can provide valuable industry insights and potentially pave the way for future opportunities.
Think about postgraduate studies or certifications: If you discover that your passion is more for accounting than mathematics, you might consider pursuing a postgraduate degree in accounting or earning relevant certifications such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). These credentials can amplify your knowledge and standing in the accounting field.
Adopt a growth mindset: Remember, feeling stuck is a common experience for many students during their academic journey. Adopt a growth mindset and see this as a chance for personal and intellectual development. Challenges and setbacks often lead to new discoveries and alternative paths that you might not have considered before.
Remember, it's never too late to tweak your academic path and chase what genuinely interests you. Take the time to explore different options, seek advice from advisors, and network with professionals in the field. By doing so, you can find a path that aligns with your interests, skills, and long-term goals.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications/Domain Names:
The College Board - www.collegeboard.org
The Princeton Review - www.princetonreview.com
U.S. News & World Report - www.usnews.com
MAY GOD BLESS YOUR EFFORTS,
JAMES
Karin P.
Lecturer
378
Answers
Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Addison,
I would say, tough it out with the math degree because you have already come so far. Once you have your bachelors you can decide in what direction you want to take it and hopefully find something you like better, be it a job or further education to Masters and PhD level (which doesn't have to be in math).
Math-adjacent fields that come to mind would be accounting, finance, data analytics, data science, business analytics, machine learning, or teaching/tutoring.
Good luck!
KP
I would say, tough it out with the math degree because you have already come so far. Once you have your bachelors you can decide in what direction you want to take it and hopefully find something you like better, be it a job or further education to Masters and PhD level (which doesn't have to be in math).
Math-adjacent fields that come to mind would be accounting, finance, data analytics, data science, business analytics, machine learning, or teaching/tutoring.
Good luck!
KP
Thiago Carmo
Business Development | MBA
35
Answers
Kirkland, Washington
Updated
Thiago’s Answer
Hello Addison,
It's not uncommon to face uncertainty during your academic journey, and it's great that you're seeking guidance. If you're no longer enjoying your math major and are more interested in accounting, pursuing a minor in accounting and then a Master of Accountancy (MAcc) could be a practical and rewarding path.
Accounting offers a wide range of career opportunities, and with your background in math and your interest in financial accounting, you'll likely find it a good fit. Furthermore, your familiarity with coding, particularly in SQL, can be an asset in the field of data analysis, which is valuable for accountants.
Many individuals have successfully transitioned from one field to another during their academic journey, so it's entirely possible to make this switch and thrive in accounting. Remember that it's never too late to make changes in your academic and career path to find a field that truly suits your passions and goals.
It's not uncommon to face uncertainty during your academic journey, and it's great that you're seeking guidance. If you're no longer enjoying your math major and are more interested in accounting, pursuing a minor in accounting and then a Master of Accountancy (MAcc) could be a practical and rewarding path.
Accounting offers a wide range of career opportunities, and with your background in math and your interest in financial accounting, you'll likely find it a good fit. Furthermore, your familiarity with coding, particularly in SQL, can be an asset in the field of data analysis, which is valuable for accountants.
Many individuals have successfully transitioned from one field to another during their academic journey, so it's entirely possible to make this switch and thrive in accounting. Remember that it's never too late to make changes in your academic and career path to find a field that truly suits your passions and goals.
Thiago Carmo
Business Development | MBA
35
Answers
Kirkland, Washington
Updated
Thiago’s Answer
Hello Addison,
It's not uncommon to face uncertainty during your academic journey, and it's great that you're seeking guidance. If you're no longer enjoying your math major and are more interested in accounting, pursuing a minor in accounting and then a Master of Accountancy (MAcc) could be a practical and rewarding path.
Accounting offers a wide range of career opportunities, and with your background in math and your interest in financial accounting, you'll likely find it a good fit. Furthermore, your familiarity with coding, particularly in SQL, can be an asset in the field of data analysis, which is valuable for accountants.
Many individuals have successfully transitioned from one field to another during their academic journey, so it's entirely possible to make this switch and thrive in accounting. If you're open to exploring other options within the math major, consider discussing your concerns with an academic advisor who may be able to help you tailor your coursework to better align with your interests. Remember that it's never too late to make changes in your academic and career path to find a field that truly suits your passions and goals.
It's not uncommon to face uncertainty during your academic journey, and it's great that you're seeking guidance. If you're no longer enjoying your math major and are more interested in accounting, pursuing a minor in accounting and then a Master of Accountancy (MAcc) could be a practical and rewarding path.
Accounting offers a wide range of career opportunities, and with your background in math and your interest in financial accounting, you'll likely find it a good fit. Furthermore, your familiarity with coding, particularly in SQL, can be an asset in the field of data analysis, which is valuable for accountants.
Many individuals have successfully transitioned from one field to another during their academic journey, so it's entirely possible to make this switch and thrive in accounting. If you're open to exploring other options within the math major, consider discussing your concerns with an academic advisor who may be able to help you tailor your coursework to better align with your interests. Remember that it's never too late to make changes in your academic and career path to find a field that truly suits your passions and goals.
Shelly-Ann Harper
Strategy and Enterprise Value
7
Answers
Baltimore, Maryland
Updated
Shelly-Ann’s Answer
Dear Addison,
A degree in mathematics can be a versatile tool, opening doors to a broad spectrum of career paths. If you find the intensity of actuarial science a bit overwhelming but still have a passion for mathematics, there are other finance-related qualifications that could boost your career prospects, assuming you have an interest in the financial sector.
In the current job market, the fields of data and technology are thriving and often seek individuals with a strong mathematical background. Roles such as data analyst, statistician, economist, data scientist, and various engineering positions could benefit greatly from your math degree.
As you're currently in your third year, it would be beneficial to explore courses that could lead to a minor degree. This could complement your major in mathematics and provide you with a wider range of career options.
Best of luck to you!
A degree in mathematics can be a versatile tool, opening doors to a broad spectrum of career paths. If you find the intensity of actuarial science a bit overwhelming but still have a passion for mathematics, there are other finance-related qualifications that could boost your career prospects, assuming you have an interest in the financial sector.
In the current job market, the fields of data and technology are thriving and often seek individuals with a strong mathematical background. Roles such as data analyst, statistician, economist, data scientist, and various engineering positions could benefit greatly from your math degree.
As you're currently in your third year, it would be beneficial to explore courses that could lead to a minor degree. This could complement your major in mathematics and provide you with a wider range of career options.
Best of luck to you!
Mafalda Vasconcelos
Project Manager
8
Answers
Lisbon, Portugal
Updated
Mafalda’s Answer
Hey Addison,
I can totally relate to your struggle! I earned my bachelor's degree in Economics and those math courses were a real challenge for me too... I stumbled and fell in multiple courses more than twice, so I understand how daunting it can feel to have 6 more math courses looming ahead. But let me tell you, the turning point for me was when I found a fantastic tutor who helped me conquer my final 3 math-related courses in just one semester.
Right now, it might seem like a lot of what you're studying won't be relevant if you choose to become an accountant. But trust me, it's going to build up your resilience and make you extremely comfortable with numbers after you've navigated through these challenging math courses.
My advice? Seek out a great tutor and stay the course... in a few years, you'll look back and be grateful for the effort you put in.
I can totally relate to your struggle! I earned my bachelor's degree in Economics and those math courses were a real challenge for me too... I stumbled and fell in multiple courses more than twice, so I understand how daunting it can feel to have 6 more math courses looming ahead. But let me tell you, the turning point for me was when I found a fantastic tutor who helped me conquer my final 3 math-related courses in just one semester.
Right now, it might seem like a lot of what you're studying won't be relevant if you choose to become an accountant. But trust me, it's going to build up your resilience and make you extremely comfortable with numbers after you've navigated through these challenging math courses.
My advice? Seek out a great tutor and stay the course... in a few years, you'll look back and be grateful for the effort you put in.