Pure Maths - The What & The Why?

[dc302]

I switched my first preference from commerce to science after ENTERs were released back in 2007. Right now I'm a week away from finishing my last exam to complete my degree (BSc, pure maths @ UoM). Switching was one of the best decisions I've ever made, and I think as time moves forward I'll look back on it with increasing admiration.

I don't know how the job market is like for pure mathematicians but since you intend to do a double degree with commerce I don't think you'll find it a problem. In addition to being intellectually rewarding you'll find that both the specific techniques you learn and the general reasoning skills you develop to be valuable in solving problems, which is useful wherever you plan to head. I don't know too much about IT degrees so I can't compare the pros and cons, but if you enjoy maths I do recommend it!

Heh, you must be in my class! Are you doing Metric spaces and possible geometry?

Pure Maths is definitely an interesting, but hard field of Maths (I'm studying for my group theory and linear algebra exam atm). Pure Maths is something you won't really have seen at school before (I.e. Any of the VCE Maths) so it took me (well still taking me) a while to adjust to it as the Maths you do really is a big leap, but after exposure to it enough and if you are passionate about it then that leap calms down.

Most of the people I know doing pure Maths are either wanting to go into academia but there are also those who want to get into banking. I guess that through developing analytical skills in it you will have employability in a lot of areas where Maths is required.

I was also considering Mathematical Physics but then decided I was too lazy in physics to pick up the concepts hehe. I'm also doing PDE's and Metrics..didn't expect so many coincidences on atarnotes

[Ahmad]

Nope! That post is a year old, so I did metric spaces last year

If you're at all involved with the maths society I may know you though

[Ahmad]

Hey guys, this isn't bozo, one of this mates. Just posting this to ask you guys!

I'm interested in doing a pure maths PhD and I have a few questions:

1. How long would I be at university for in total and could you explain the route there?
2. How hard is it to become a university professor/lecturer whereby you lecture a bit and do some research? Is competition competitive?
3. As I was never into maths at at younger age, I only developed an interest at 16, would I be too far behind the likes of Thushan in getting into a job like this. Like for instance, to be a professional athlete in soccer, you need to be trained from the age of 3-4 to stand any chance. Is this the same case for mathematics?
4. What pay does a lecturer/professor receive. I don't care much about money so long as I can live comfortably and support a family.
5. Job security?

Thanks!!!!!!!!!!!
It's my dream to be a mathematics professor, just not sure if it's a possible reality

1. If you want to go the academic route after completing a PhD you'll need to do postdoctoral research, usually at two different places, each lasting 2-3 years. While a postdoc I think you'll make $65-70k.

2. I think (and have been told by a maths academic) that if you do well in maths and are willing to travel then the academic route is certainly possible and achievable. However, it's difficult and there aren't good chances of finding a position if you're unwilling to travel.

3. I became very interested in maths only late in highschool, hasn't stopped me. I don't think it matters.

[Ahmad]

But my heart is telling me to study maths.

Listen to your heart.

[funkyducky]

If you're interested in IT and Maths, do a BSc, you can double major in Pure Maths and CompSci. BTW Computer Science is far more rigorous programming etc. compared to most "Information Technology" degrees - it's really the mathematical/scientific side of computing.

[dc302]

Nope! That post is a year old, so I did metric spaces last year

If you're at all involved with the maths society I may know you though

True, totally did not see the time stamp. Oh well

Now must return to my Anatomy cramming...