Tilted Forum Project Discussion Community - View Single Post

platypus · 06-12-2003, 04:32 PM

What can you do? Programming or Teaching. Probably others, but that's all I could ever think of.

I was a member of the Major-of-the-Month club. Majored in Biology and Chemistry with the idea of becoming a doctor. I worked for one during a summer and decided that wasn't what I wanted to do anymore. I switched majors and got a degree in Applied Mathematics. I have been a programmer since my first job out of college.

I don't know what your computer experience is, but mine was almost nil - only a couple of programming courses. Keep in mind though that alot of what a math major brings to a job is ability to think analytically. If you can look at a problem and chart a step by step solution, then the coding is just plug and play.

I have worked in several different industries - auto, government, banking, commercial real estate, etc. My first job took me from Denver, where I graduated, to Flint Michigan (aka Dresden). I have since worked in the D.C area and am now in NY. The trick is to be flexible. Don't restrict yourself to industry or location.

I would guess that your prospects (short and long term) will be better with a degree in math rather than in geology. And if you can graduate early, do it. The sooner you get into the job market, the better. No sense running your school bills up while waiting for a turn in the economy. It could be years, not semesters. Better to be working and gaining experience.

As far as expected salary, I have no idea. I made 22k right out of college. Wasn't bad in 1986. Here in NY, I've seen entry level positions go for 30-60k, depending on experience and pressing need. Might not be that high in NC, but then your cost of living would probably be lower.

Good luck.

06-12-2003, 04:32 PM	#4 (permalink)
platypus Essen meine kurze Hosen Location: NY Burbs	What can you do? Programming or Teaching. Probably others, but that's all I could ever think of. I was a member of the Major-of-the-Month club. Majored in Biology and Chemistry with the idea of becoming a doctor. I worked for one during a summer and decided that wasn't what I wanted to do anymore. I switched majors and got a degree in Applied Mathematics. I have been a programmer since my first job out of college. I don't know what your computer experience is, but mine was almost nil - only a couple of programming courses. Keep in mind though that alot of what a math major brings to a job is ability to think analytically. If you can look at a problem and chart a step by step solution, then the coding is just plug and play. I have worked in several different industries - auto, government, banking, commercial real estate, etc. My first job took me from Denver, where I graduated, to Flint Michigan (aka Dresden). I have since worked in the D.C area and am now in NY. The trick is to be flexible. Don't restrict yourself to industry or location. I would guess that your prospects (short and long term) will be better with a degree in math rather than in geology. And if you can graduate early, do it. The sooner you get into the job market, the better. No sense running your school bills up while waiting for a turn in the economy. It could be years, not semesters. Better to be working and gaining experience. As far as expected salary, I have no idea. I made 22k right out of college. Wasn't bad in 1986. Here in NY, I've seen entry level positions go for 30-60k, depending on experience and pressing need. Might not be that high in NC, but then your cost of living would probably be lower. Good luck. __________________ Out the 10Base-T, through the router, down the T1, over the leased line, off the bridge, past the firewall...nothing but Net.