Will a B in Basic Math Affect My Chances at Math REUs and Grad Schools?

  • Thread starter Thread starter hanabiramochi
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Grades
AI Thread Summary
Applying to REUs in math is a common concern for students, especially when facing a B in a foundational course like analysis. While a B can feel discouraging, it is generally not detrimental to future applications, particularly when balanced by strong performance in other courses, such as A's in abstract algebra and linear algebra. Many students share similar experiences, indicating that occasional lower grades are not uncommon and do not define overall potential. It's advisable to apply to a range of REUs, including those with varying levels of prestige, as securing any position can be challenging. Concerns about a B in a graduate algebra class are valid, but maintaining a strong overall academic record and being reasonable in expectations can mitigate worries about future applications.
hanabiramochi
3
0
Hi! I'm a sophomore interested in applying to reus over the summer (and grad schools later). Would it be a big problem applying to these places later if I got a B in a basic class like analysis? I've also taken abstract algebra courses and got A's in them. Most of the places that I'm applying to seem to be really hard to get in and it looks like this may pose a problem, especially since I didn't do well in a very important basic subject that is used everywhere. This is mostly for reus, since I'm planning to take more analysis classes later.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Are you considering REUs in math or physics? Either way, a B isn't bad. You received A's in algebra which says more.
 
I am in pretty much this very same situation. Got a B in complex analysis, but a's in two linear algebra classes and Diff. Eq.
 
Just remember to apply to some lower level schools as well for REUs, even if they are of much less prestige than the school you currently go to. Getting one is difficult no matter where you apply so you will be happy to get in ANYWHERE.
 
I don't think an occasional B in an upper divisional course is life ending, as long as one doesn't make a habit out of it. But that's just my opinion.
 
Thanks for all the replies. Another (possible) problem is that I have a B in a graduate algebra class already (the ones I mentioned before are undergrad). :/ I'm just really worried after looking at people I know going to reus. Hopefully nothing bad will happen as long as I'm being reasonable. @Mmm_Pasta: I'm applying to math reus.
 
I'm going to make this one quick since I have little time. Background: Throughout my life I have always done good in Math. I almost always received 90%+, and received easily upwards of 95% when I took normal-level HS Math courses. When I took Grade 9 "De-Streamed" Math (All students must take "De-Streamed" in Canada), I initially had 98% until I got very sick and my mark had dropped to 95%. The Physics teachers and Math teachers talked about me as if I were some sort of genius. Then, an...
Bit Britain-specific but I was wondering, what's the best path to take for A-Levels out of the following (I know Y10 seems a bit early to be thinking about A-levels, but my choice will impact what I do this year/ in y11) I (almost) definitely want to do physics at University - so keep that in mind... The subjects that I'm almost definitely going to take are Maths, Further Maths and Physics, and I'm taking a fast track programme which means that I'll be taking AS computer science at the end...
After a year of thought, I decided to adjust my ratio for applying the US/EU(+UK) schools. I mostly focused on the US schools before, but things are getting complex and I found out that Europe is also a good place to study. I found some institutes that have professors with similar interests. But gaining the information is much harder than US schools (like you have to contact professors in advance etc). For your information, I have B.S. in engineering (low GPA: 3.2/4.0) in Asia - one SCI...

Similar threads

Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
12
Views
3K
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
3K
Replies
11
Views
2K
Back
Top