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gilmerica5000
- 4
- 0
Currently I am doing research with a professor in plasma physics, which I am enjoying, though it isn't what I would like to do in the long run. This summer I am going abroad, but next summer it looks like I will have the choice between applying for an REU (which, of course, I may not get anyway) or staying here, doing research, and taking classes. If I stay here over the summer and take classes, there is a chance that I may be able to complete a double major in physics and math (in addition to my other degree in philosophy), but if I don't stay, I will walk away with a two degrees, one in philosophy and one in physics with a minor in math. So, my question is, for grad school, which looks better and would be more beneficial to me - an REU, or summer research with the potential for getting a double major in physics and math? I feel like at an REU there is at least the potential for doing something different from what I am currently that may interest me more. The other issue to take into consideration is that the math classes I feel would be most beneficial for me as a physicist are math electives, and so do not contribute much to that degree. It seems like if I were to major in math, I would have to cut back on some of the classes I want to take (Elementary Partial Diff Eq or Vector Calculus or Compex Variables) for some classes I don't really want to take (Intro. to Advanced Math or Prob & Stats). So maybe the minor would actually be more advantageous? Although, if I stayed over the summer, even if I didn't go for the major in math, it would give me a chance to take a class like Numerical Analysis, which might be helpful... I'm rambling now, so I'll just stop here. Thanks in advance for your assistance.