Hi. I apologize if this is too long. I want to get a feel for my plan of action. I want to aim for a top 10 mathematics graduate program (Edit: I am interested in UC Berkeley). For the record, I am a junior double major in mathematics and computer science at a lowly ranked liberal arts school. I am wondering if I have a good shot if I follow this transcript/profile:
Calculus 1, 2, 3
Linear algebra 1
Discrete mathematics
Ordinary differential equations
Introduction to proofs
Abstract algebra 1
Probability and statistics 1
Advanced calculus 1
Partial differential equations
Elliptic curves (Algebraic; an undergraduate independent study. However, upon request, the professor can teach turn it into a graduate level course but it will still be marked as an undergrad course on my transcript)
Cryptography and cryptanalysis
Foundations of geometry
Abstract algebra 2
Functions of a complex variable
Introduction to topology (point set)
Theory of numbers
Linear algebra 2
Probability theory
Theoretical computer science
Advanced calculus 2
Introduction to modern algebra 1 (grad course)
Introduction to modern algebra 2 (grad course)
Differential geometry (grad course)
Algebraic geometry (grad course)
Algebraic topology (grad course)
Real Variables 1 (grad course)
Real Variables 2 (grad course)
**Perhaps I will take for fun: Stochastic Ordinary Differential Equations (grad level)
I do not want to say that I have research experience in mathematics. I worked in a small group on an algebra research project as an "REU" and I am not proud of myself, so I will leave it off.
And as part of my profile, assume I can obtain 3 good letters of recommendation. Also, suppose I do very well on the mathematics GRE and the Putnam exam (I am planning on taking it next year). Also, suppose I get an A or A+ in all of the above courses with the exception of 1 B+ in Calculus 1 and a B in Linear Algebra 1and an A- in probability and statistics 1.
Do I have a realistic shot?
Realistic chances at a top 10 PhD program from Bachelor's degree
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- Joined: Tue Jul 23, 2019 11:49 pm
Re: Realistic chances at a top 10 PhD program from Bachelor's degree
There's really no way to know. At the top, decisions are a bit arbitrary.
Just apply to a good number of top 10 and top 20 schools, and throw in a few safeties as well.
Just apply to a good number of top 10 and top 20 schools, and throw in a few safeties as well.