Low Math GPA, Picked Up Math Major Late

[aprilmarikko]

Physics major —> math major

Physics GPA was: 3.75
3.76 Cumulative Before Switching

Then I switched to math. Over the past 2 Semesters I have

Spring 23: 3 W’s (non math) and a C+.

Fall 23: 2 A’s and 2 C’s all math.

My overall GPA is now 3.6 and my math GPA is a putrid 3.0. I won’t get into specifics, but I think these grades are not representative of my ability. I got C’s in real and complex analysis where my weaker background in math really showed. And this was a huge course load, as well as my first time being exposed to proof based math.


I did well in abstract courses like algebra/algebraic geometry I got A’s, so I think I’m capable of I can fill in some of the gaps in my knowledge.

I am going to retake calc 1 and 2. Hopefully I can do well in part 2 of my analysis course next semester. I will also take graduate algebra and a couple of other courses.

I think I should try to get some pure math research experience, do well on the regular and math GRE’s.

Should I get a masters? I’m set to graduate in the spring but another option is to push graduation back until the fall to take more courses.

General advice based on my circumstances? any input greatly appreciated.

[MathDad]

I am going to retake calc 1 and 2. Hopefully I can do well in part 2 of my analysis course next semester.

I would not bother with retaking calc 1 and 2 if you already took it. Get into a proofs class, Then, slow down and figure out what your ultimate goals are. Go to office hours and talk to grad students and professors. They would be the best source of guidance for your situation.

[coffeebeanbag]

If graduating in the spring, would you be applying to grad school for 2024 fall? If so, then the courses you plan to take next semester might not be helpful with your application. I think it's good to get a bit more experiences (later graduation for more courses, MS degree, research experience, etc.) and not apply to the 2024 fall cycle. Even better would be for you to try to get a reference letter that speaks to your analysis ability. But if you have such a letter, or your SOP explains your situation well such that any readers would be convinced of your math ability, then I think you may try for the 2024 fall cycle if you'd like.