MbShea@PWP@English@UMCP

Abstract: Whether through devising and applying new theories, analyzing statistical or mathematical data, or even grooming the next generation of math minds, mathematicians stand to make both a significant difference in the world and a significant quantity of money (median salary of $111,000 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics). However, the path to these careers is not exactly a clear-cut trail. Traditional track math majors at the University of Maryland have to choose and complete eight 400 level math courses to earn a bachelor’s degree, of which four are totally free choice (other tracks have more specific requirements, but still have some free choice). These eight classes must chosen from a broad variety of topics under the umbrella of mathematics. However, different branches of mathematics appeal to different minds and personalities. Furthermore, different branches of mathematics bear differing levels of relevance for a given student depending on that student’s career aspirations. As a math major who struggled with my free choice decisions and ultimately chose my upper-level classes relatively blindly, I seek to make the selection process easier for future math majors. I have devised a small interest guide providing brief, cursory summaries of many of the 400 level math classes, along with personal recommendations including which careers a given subject may further, what type of person may enjoy a given field of mathematics, and (most importantly) the golden rule of math classes in College Park: always take Justin.

WC: 240

READER’S PROFILE: I imagine a reader who is unimpressed by my ability to summarize upper level math classes and who is frustrated by the number of classes on which I was unable to provide information. The reader may also disagree with some of my recommendations.

READER’S RESPONSE: What kind of genius does this guy think he is? He barely gave any details concerning many upper level courses, and some of his summaries represented only the basic material. He comes across as someone who knows everything about a wide variety of mathematical concepts, but having taken some of the classes he describes, he clearly knows a little about a lot, and not vice-versa. I also disagree with his assessment regarding Professor Justin Wyss-Gallifent. I did not find Justin to be the greatest teacher I had ever taken, and I also do not think that a math major should totally alter his (or her) entire four-year plan and potentially take less practical and desirable math classes just to take the easier professor. This interest guide is misleading, biased, and intellectually dishonest.

J -- what a curmudgeonly reader! We cannot make all the people happy all the time, as the old saying goes.

I am not sure what the easier professor means...touch base with me?