I will be graduating in May 2026 from a T100 school in the US. I am a Math+Computer Science double major, and throughout college I've been trying to become a competitive applicant for a PhD in CS. However, as I've gone through school, I've realized that I like Math more, and I'd like to look into PhD programs in algebraic geometry or linear error correction.
Overall GPA: 3.7 (This will become higher, as I absolutely grind my classes. I am confident I can get this to a 3.8+)
Math GPA: 3.65 (Again, I am confident I can get this to a 3.8+)
CS GPA: 3.9
School: T100 US
Research Experience: DoD Mathematics Research Coop, compelling research in linear error correction (upcoming)
Teaching Experience: Student Instructor and Grader - Discrete Math (1 semester so far, will likely continue unless I mess up)
Awards: Dean's List
I'm a white male US citizen, native English.
My main concern is letters of rec. I can get 1 very strong letter from a professor I will be doing research with, as well as taking multiple of his graduate level classes and being able to keep up. I believe this letter will be very strong. 1 ok (better than did well in class, but did not research with professor) letter showing my determination. I'm trying to forge more relationships with professors to get a 3rd letter, and I could possibly ask my boss at my coop.
I'm also coming into this quite late, and I really don't know what to do. Many people say to take the GRE, while others say to not. I also am not nearly as well versed in math PhD admissions as I am in CS PhD. However, the more time passes, the more I realize that perhaps this is the path to me. CS is interesting, but the higher I get into math the more I want to know. What would you all suggest I do to optimize my chances? Is it worth it to keep going, or should I just stick to CS?
Am I too late? Thinking about PhD in my third year.
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Re: Am I too late? Thinking about PhD in my third year.
What do you want to do?
You don't have to be in school to learn mathematics.
You don't have to be in school to learn mathematics.
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Re: Am I too late? Thinking about PhD in my third year.
I am very interested in advancing a field of science, whether it be computer science or math. I understand your position, but grad school is a non-negotiable for me, even if I need to take gap years or do a masters to make it happen.juicetrainwreck wrote: ↑Mon Sep 30, 2024 10:58 pmWhat do you want to do?
You don't have to be in school to learn mathematics.