11 answers
Naziyat
Student
Dhaka, Dhaka Division, Bangladesh
6
Questions
Asked
1259 views
What major is better, Applied mathematics or Electrical engineering or architecture?
These three majors interests me the most. I like math and science. Which major would be good for me? Which major will make me more happy? If you have any other major related to these three feel free to suggest the major for me.
11 answers
Francisco Escobar Iniguez
Financial Analyst
5
Answers
Round Rock, Texas
Updated
Francisco’s Answer
Honestly, I believe this is a very personal question and it is hard to assess. You should try to see in which career you think you will be happier. In the end, you will most likely end up working on a related feel on that for the rest of your life. However, remember that you can also decide to try something new as you progress in your professional career. Good luck!
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1179
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Naziyat !
I am happy to see that you have a variety of interests and you seem to be very ambitious which is definitely in your favor. The reality is, no one, especially someone who doesn't know you, can "pick" or "choose" a major for you. That will be up to you alone after careful exploring and consideration based upon what subject you are most drawn to.
Since you are quite smart and successful at school already, it is up to you to choose your own happiness. Happiness will come from your work contributions, yes, but there are many more things in life that also provide happiness and you will develop in such ways where you can attain a balance for satisfaction in all aspects of your own particular life.
My advice is to learn what happiness means to you and explore the people, places and things that bring you joy. The Positive Psychology website has a neat article about happiness, one that you can start out with to build an idea of what happiness means to you. I have left a link for it below. After that, do more reading about how to create happy moments and how to make choices for yourself that come from within. Because making decisions for your life is so important, you should read an article on how to makes choices for yourself, too. The Effectiviology website has a helpful article about this, too (see the link below). From there, you can watch video presentations and read more to learn why it's important for you to choose a major based on your interest, skills and where you see yourself in your future.
Someone can easily tell you what to major in based on their own estimations, assumptions and experience, but it all boils down to you making a choice. All of the subjects you've mentioned that you're interested in are noble careers and if you pick one yourself, you will know that it was completely your choice. With that many interests, it won't be hard to finally decide on one or even two.
I wish you all the best in school and the process of choosing a major ! I think that you are going to do well !
POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY - PHILOSOPHY OF HAPPINESS https://positivepsychology.com/philosophy-of-happiness/
EFFECTIVIOLOGY https://effectiviology.com/how-to-make-decisions/
I am happy to see that you have a variety of interests and you seem to be very ambitious which is definitely in your favor. The reality is, no one, especially someone who doesn't know you, can "pick" or "choose" a major for you. That will be up to you alone after careful exploring and consideration based upon what subject you are most drawn to.
Since you are quite smart and successful at school already, it is up to you to choose your own happiness. Happiness will come from your work contributions, yes, but there are many more things in life that also provide happiness and you will develop in such ways where you can attain a balance for satisfaction in all aspects of your own particular life.
My advice is to learn what happiness means to you and explore the people, places and things that bring you joy. The Positive Psychology website has a neat article about happiness, one that you can start out with to build an idea of what happiness means to you. I have left a link for it below. After that, do more reading about how to create happy moments and how to make choices for yourself that come from within. Because making decisions for your life is so important, you should read an article on how to makes choices for yourself, too. The Effectiviology website has a helpful article about this, too (see the link below). From there, you can watch video presentations and read more to learn why it's important for you to choose a major based on your interest, skills and where you see yourself in your future.
Someone can easily tell you what to major in based on their own estimations, assumptions and experience, but it all boils down to you making a choice. All of the subjects you've mentioned that you're interested in are noble careers and if you pick one yourself, you will know that it was completely your choice. With that many interests, it won't be hard to finally decide on one or even two.
I wish you all the best in school and the process of choosing a major ! I think that you are going to do well !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
THANKS A LOT, MAAM! Your answer really satisfied me. I have interest in all of these majors but everyone told me to do research on every single one and find what major should be good for me. BUT you knew much more important point which is happiness. I have no problem studying any major from those three but the major which will make me more happy is a another important point to think about.
Naziyat
Yes, it is, Naziyat, and I think you will do well !
Michelle M.
Ben Mueck
Financial Analyst
6
Answers
Round Rock, Texas
Updated
Ben’s Answer
Hi Naziyat!
All of these majors are great options! You can be happy in any major you choose, but you are on the right track wanting to do research before choosing one. I would research the curriculum and class descriptions for the courses in each major and see which ones sound most interesting to you. While I did not major in any of these 3, my understanding is that architecture programs can be heavily project based, electrical engineering has a mix of hands-on labs with math and science theory classes, while applied math goes much deeper into advanced math theories. I would look on different university department websites to research and find which one you are most interested in.
All of these majors are great options! You can be happy in any major you choose, but you are on the right track wanting to do research before choosing one. I would research the curriculum and class descriptions for the courses in each major and see which ones sound most interesting to you. While I did not major in any of these 3, my understanding is that architecture programs can be heavily project based, electrical engineering has a mix of hands-on labs with math and science theory classes, while applied math goes much deeper into advanced math theories. I would look on different university department websites to research and find which one you are most interested in.
Najee Warner
Financial Analyst
6
Answers
United States
Updated
Najee’s Answer
1. Applied Mathematics:
If you love math and enjoy solving tough problems, applied mathematics could be a good fit. In this major, you'll study math theories and use them to solve real-world problems in fields like physics, computer science, finance, and engineering. It gives you a strong foundation in math and analytical thinking, which is useful in many industries.
2. Electrical Engineering:
If you're into science, especially electricity, electronics, and technology, electrical engineering might be a great choice. This major focuses on designing, developing, and testing electrical systems, circuits, and devices. You'll learn both theory and practice in areas like power generation, telecommunications, robotics, and computer hardware. Electrical engineering offers plenty of career options in industries like telecommunications, renewable energy, and automation.
3. Architecture: If you're creative, have an eye for design, and like making buildings and structures, architecture could be a good major for you. In this field, you'll design and plan structures that are both beautiful and functional. Architects work on projects like houses, offices, and public spaces. They need to combine artistic skills with technical knowledge and be good problem-solvers.
To figure out which major will make you happier, think about what excites you most about each field. Consider your personal interests, strengths, and long-term career goals. Talking to professionals or professors in each field, researching job prospects and work environments, and even trying internships or shadowing experiences can help you make an informed decision.
Considering your interest in math and science, you may also want to explore Computer Science. This major combines math, logic, problem-solving, and computer programming. It opens up many career paths in industries like software engineering, data analysis, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.
Remember, the "better" major depends on what you personally prefer, what you're good at, and what you want to achieve. Take your time to thoroughly research and explore each option before making a decision.
If you love math and enjoy solving tough problems, applied mathematics could be a good fit. In this major, you'll study math theories and use them to solve real-world problems in fields like physics, computer science, finance, and engineering. It gives you a strong foundation in math and analytical thinking, which is useful in many industries.
2. Electrical Engineering:
If you're into science, especially electricity, electronics, and technology, electrical engineering might be a great choice. This major focuses on designing, developing, and testing electrical systems, circuits, and devices. You'll learn both theory and practice in areas like power generation, telecommunications, robotics, and computer hardware. Electrical engineering offers plenty of career options in industries like telecommunications, renewable energy, and automation.
3. Architecture: If you're creative, have an eye for design, and like making buildings and structures, architecture could be a good major for you. In this field, you'll design and plan structures that are both beautiful and functional. Architects work on projects like houses, offices, and public spaces. They need to combine artistic skills with technical knowledge and be good problem-solvers.
To figure out which major will make you happier, think about what excites you most about each field. Consider your personal interests, strengths, and long-term career goals. Talking to professionals or professors in each field, researching job prospects and work environments, and even trying internships or shadowing experiences can help you make an informed decision.
Considering your interest in math and science, you may also want to explore Computer Science. This major combines math, logic, problem-solving, and computer programming. It opens up many career paths in industries like software engineering, data analysis, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.
Remember, the "better" major depends on what you personally prefer, what you're good at, and what you want to achieve. Take your time to thoroughly research and explore each option before making a decision.
Jason Windish
maintenance mechanic
29
Answers
Newington, Connecticut
Updated
Jason’s Answer
unfortunately there is no perfect answer. there is no better or worse, right or wrong, etc...... it's all about what your passionate about and what comes naturally to you.
Hannia Yeverino
Finance Analyst
2
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Hannia’s Answer
Hi Naziyat,
I personally didn't study either of those majors (I actually majored in finance), but I changed majors throughout my time in college a couple of times, so I understand the feeling of being unsure what to major in. I also have a couple of friends who studied those majors, so this is my answer from second-hand experience.
Before we get into that, I do think it's important to first identify what career you would like to go into. College is a gateway to achieve our professional goals, so I believe it's good to first identify those goals, then assess how college can help us get there. I know it's hard to decide what specific career you want to be in but think about what makes you happy. Would you be happy doing work in an office environment, in a classroom, at a firm? Would you prefer working individually, teaching to a group of people, or working with a team and/or clients?
I suggest looking into the different career paths each of these areas could lead you to and do research into those career paths, and then narrow down what you think interests you the most.
From personal experience, I do think engineering has a greater mix of science and math than architecture and applied mathematics but be open to learning about new things! You may never know what you learn about yourself and maybe you'll have more interest in one of the other two or in a whole different major.
I personally didn't study either of those majors (I actually majored in finance), but I changed majors throughout my time in college a couple of times, so I understand the feeling of being unsure what to major in. I also have a couple of friends who studied those majors, so this is my answer from second-hand experience.
Before we get into that, I do think it's important to first identify what career you would like to go into. College is a gateway to achieve our professional goals, so I believe it's good to first identify those goals, then assess how college can help us get there. I know it's hard to decide what specific career you want to be in but think about what makes you happy. Would you be happy doing work in an office environment, in a classroom, at a firm? Would you prefer working individually, teaching to a group of people, or working with a team and/or clients?
I suggest looking into the different career paths each of these areas could lead you to and do research into those career paths, and then narrow down what you think interests you the most.
From personal experience, I do think engineering has a greater mix of science and math than architecture and applied mathematics but be open to learning about new things! You may never know what you learn about yourself and maybe you'll have more interest in one of the other two or in a whole different major.
Abdullah Sharker
Product Management
1
Answer
New City, New York
Updated
Abdullah’s Answer
Having an engineering degree is truly beneficial. It equips you with the discipline and the expertise to tackle any problem. Remember, every employer is on the hunt for problem solvers or at least those who can find solutions. As an engineer, your employment opportunities span across all industries. Moreover, if you can focus on honing your coding skills with an engineering degree in hand, it's like the cherry on top of a cake.
Sakti Prasad Mishra
Solution Architect
1
Answer
Walldorf, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Updated
Sakti Prasad’s Answer
Hello Naziyat,
There's no such thing as a bad major, they're all valuable in their own way. Your choice should be guided by your personal interests and passions. In our diverse world, we see individuals thriving in a multitude of fields. Each of the subjects you've mentioned holds its own unique appeal. So, take time to evaluate your strengths and review the course details. I'm confident that you'll be able to pinpoint the perfect major for you. Wishing you all the best on this exciting journey.
There's no such thing as a bad major, they're all valuable in their own way. Your choice should be guided by your personal interests and passions. In our diverse world, we see individuals thriving in a multitude of fields. Each of the subjects you've mentioned holds its own unique appeal. So, take time to evaluate your strengths and review the course details. I'm confident that you'll be able to pinpoint the perfect major for you. Wishing you all the best on this exciting journey.
Julia Dale
5
Answers
Updated
Julia’s Answer
If you like math and science but you are not sure exactly as to what you would like to do after college I would say study Electrical Engineering. Having an engineering degree will give you options if you decide that you want to change your career at any point. While Applied Mathematics is great, as an engineering major you will already be taking a lot of math classes and if you really wanted to, you could minor in mathematics, its only 2 or 3 more classes depending on where you go to college. I have an electrical engineering degree and I will say that even as you get into your last couple of classes you can choose to specialize in a specific field if you want. I chose Systems and Telecommunications, but there is also Power, and Radio Frequency. I currently manage a database and create dashboards, which I didn't learn in school but because I am an engineer I was trained to solve problems and think in a certain way. I wish you the best of luck in whatever you decide.
Daniel Zhuang
Financial Analyst
2
Answers
Framingham, Massachusetts
Updated
Daniel’s Answer
Hi Naziyat,
I am very happy to hear that you're very set in the majors you would like to pursue in the future! This is already a great first step you're taking and I am glad you are asking for other voices!
Overall, I believe that in terms of career flexibility, applied mathematics definitely gives you an edge. A lot of my friends who majored in mathematics in college went on to start careers in many different fields including banking, entrepreneurship, engineering, and even law firms. If long-term happiness is something you are considering, then this is a major I would strongly consider as you will have plenty of options to choose from later on.
I will also put out another recommendation to electrical engineering as many companies, especially in technology, are now looking for people who are able to utilize Generative AI. However, I have heard in particular that this is a more difficult major, so if you're looking for an easier time in college, then this may be a major you want to think about before entering.
Overall, everything will be up to you and I want to let you know that whatever major you end up choosing will be the right one for you as you know yourself the best! I'm wishing you all the best in your journey throughout college!
I am very happy to hear that you're very set in the majors you would like to pursue in the future! This is already a great first step you're taking and I am glad you are asking for other voices!
Overall, I believe that in terms of career flexibility, applied mathematics definitely gives you an edge. A lot of my friends who majored in mathematics in college went on to start careers in many different fields including banking, entrepreneurship, engineering, and even law firms. If long-term happiness is something you are considering, then this is a major I would strongly consider as you will have plenty of options to choose from later on.
I will also put out another recommendation to electrical engineering as many companies, especially in technology, are now looking for people who are able to utilize Generative AI. However, I have heard in particular that this is a more difficult major, so if you're looking for an easier time in college, then this may be a major you want to think about before entering.
Overall, everything will be up to you and I want to let you know that whatever major you end up choosing will be the right one for you as you know yourself the best! I'm wishing you all the best in your journey throughout college!
Thanks sir!
Naziyat
Rashi Narayanan
Product Manager
1
Answer
Austin, Texas
Updated
Rashi’s Answer
Hello!! I have been in your shoes too and many of us have. I would say this, the way the next gen careers are being shaped, it is looking like applied mathematics has a broader scope of application.
Also does not mean you have to stick to one your whole life. I started off as an aeronautical engineer and now I am in Product at a telehealth company.... two very different markets and solving very different problems.
If you find yourself skewing toward one in particular and you think about it day in and day out , have you talked to individuals who are established in their careers as electrical engineers or architects to gain their perspective? It might be different from yours! Just a thought!
I am sure you will find a way. Best of everything to you!
Rashi
Also does not mean you have to stick to one your whole life. I started off as an aeronautical engineer and now I am in Product at a telehealth company.... two very different markets and solving very different problems.
If you find yourself skewing toward one in particular and you think about it day in and day out , have you talked to individuals who are established in their careers as electrical engineers or architects to gain their perspective? It might be different from yours! Just a thought!
I am sure you will find a way. Best of everything to you!
Rashi
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