What Are the Next Steps for a Math Major Uncertain About Grad School?

[Overkill777]

My girlfriend is a senior Math major with a 3.55-3.6 gpa. She was planning on going an extra year as an undergrad to Double Major in Math and Physics and go on to get her PhD in Cosmology or Physics. Although after a summer research internship she does want to do that anymore. She had to do a lot of computer programming and that's not her thing. She feels that as a physics professor, research consists of sitting at a computer all day, working on the same problem for a year or more, and not making really big breakthroughs, and she can't stand it.

So now she might just complete her math major and get a physics minor and not go the extra year. I should also point out she has been working as a Math tutor for years at the university and is very good at it.

So she is at a dilemma of where to go from there. She likes undergraduate math and could make a good college math teacher, but is turned off by graduate level math and doesn't know if she could persevere to get a Math phd. She is also unsure of prospects of teaching high school level math and how to get certified for that.

So in a nutshell she is a good problem solver, a good teacher, can survive an extremely heavy workload, and likes undergrad math. She wants to stay busy with many different problems that can be solved in days rather than years. She is considering many different options, even thought about med school. Recommendations?

 

[symbolipoint]

She might like teaching in a private or public high school, depending on if she can maintain her knowledge and skills. An undergraduate degree in Mathematics is usually enough, aside from other standard tests, to become a high school teacher (also subject matter tests, acceptance into a credential program, certain other combinations of coursework along with your major concentration). She already has tutoring experience, so that would give her potentially a strong start.

 

[Mene]

I can understand your girlfriend's dilemma and concerns. It's important for her to explore different options and find a career path that aligns with her interests and strengths. Here are some potential recommendations for her to consider:

1. Pursue a career in data science or analytics: With her strong math background and experience in computer programming, your girlfriend could consider a career in data science or analytics. These fields involve solving real-world problems using mathematical and statistical techniques, and can offer a variety of projects and challenges to keep her engaged.

2. Explore teaching opportunities in community colleges: Your girlfriend's experience as a math tutor and her interest in teaching could make her a great fit for teaching at a community college. These institutions often offer a mix of undergraduate and graduate level courses, providing her with the opportunity to teach both levels of math.

3. Consider a master's degree in education: If your girlfriend is interested in teaching high school math, she could consider pursuing a master's degree in education to become certified. This would also give her the opportunity to explore different teaching methods and strategies, and potentially specialize in a specific area of math.

4. Look into industry positions in finance or technology: Many industries, such as finance and technology, require individuals with strong math skills. Your girlfriend could consider exploring opportunities in these fields, which would offer a fast-paced and constantly changing environment.

5. Keep an open mind and explore different options: It's important for your girlfriend to keep an open mind and continue exploring different career paths. She could reach out to professionals in different fields for informational interviews, attend career fairs, or even consider internships or job shadowing to gain a better understanding of potential career options.

In the end, the most important thing is for your girlfriend to find a career that she is passionate about and that allows her to use her strengths and skills. With her strong problem-solving abilities and love for teaching, I am confident that she will find a fulfilling career path.