The Journey of Choosing a Major: Insights from a Mathematics Student at UT Austin

Hello, I studied Mathematics at the University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin). In high school, I felt like I was the only kid who had no idea what I wanted to do in life, and I knew that taking on a lot of student loan debt meant I needed to choose a major that would lead to a job helping me pay it off as quickly as possible.

Why Business School Didn't Work Out

I applied to the business school but was rejected, so I ended up choosing my second choice, the College of Natural Sciences. Originally, I was planning to major in chemistry, but when it came time to pick my major, I took a step back and read through the entire list. Something about mathematics caught my eye. I couldn't explain exactly what it was, perhaps it was the job flexibility, the potential to go into data science, software engineering, finance, teaching, or grad school. The thought of how challenging it would be also appealed to me.

Decision Making at 17

I had trouble deciding between mathematics and chemistry, so I flipped a coin. It seems so ridiculous to think back on now, but when I was 17, that’s how I made decisions. There were no more authoritative figures to follow, no more parents to consult. I had to trust my instincts and make a choice. The decision to study mathematics was a gamble, one that turned out to be quite rewarding.

Overcoming Initial Challenges

I actually didn't like my major at first. I took calculus during my first two semesters, and I felt like an idiot. I came out with a B in both courses. My biology major friends, on the other hand, received A's, leading me to question whether I was cut out for mathematics.

Leaving UT Austin for Mental Health Reasons

During my sophomore year, I decided to leave UT Austin for mental health reasons. It was a difficult decision, but one that was necessary for my well-being. While I was away, I reflected on my academic path and thought about what it truly meant to be a mathematics student.

Lessons Learned

The experience of choosing and pursuing a major at UT Austin taught me a lot about resilience and self-reflection. It reminded me that it's okay to change your mind, and that taking breaks for mental health is essential. Mathematics, while challenging, opened a world of opportunities that I never could have imagined when I was in high school.

Future Prospects

Looking back, I believe that choosing mathematics at UT Austin was the best decision for me. It has equipped me with the skills necessary to pursue a variety of careers, and it has shown me the value of perseverance and the importance of following my interests. If you're currently navigating the decision-making process in college, the same advice applies to you: trust your instincts and be willing to take a leap of faith.

Conclusion

Choosing your major can be a daunting task, but it's also an exciting opportunity to shape your future. My journey from a confused high school student to a mathematics major at UT Austin is a testament to the power of making informed yet flexible decisions. Whether you're considering mathematics, chemistry, or any other field, remember that every decision is a chance to grow and learn.