Should I drop my math major?
Currently a junior at a semi-target set to go to an EB IB next summer. I'm majoring in math and econ and my abstract algebra class right now is destroying me--best case I finish with a B-, worst case a D+/D. I had a 3.75 GPA when recruiting that is now down to 3.65, so I really can't afford to take any more hits because I'm worried that might raise red flags during background checks / return offer deliberations. Should I just swallow my pride, withdraw from the class, and drop down to a math minor? Will dropping the a major raise eyebrows at my bank? I honestly enjoy economics more but the fact that mathematics is more prestigious, looks sexier on a resume, and more interesting at cocktail parties makes this really really hard.
GPA won't really matter much in return offer deliberations, and won't be relevant at all in the background check–as long as your GPA matches what it was at the time you applied, you're fine.
Would really try to keep the math major just as a long-term benefit on your resume. Can you take abstract algebra another semester/is it required for the major? Namely, could you take something like real analysis instead to finish the major? Only have taken real analysis and while it is hard, kinda seems more straightforward than stuff like group theory (I've tried to self-study it).
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I have already taken Analysis, and yes abstract algebra is a requirement for the major. If I drop and retake later I won't be able to graduate a semester early which is something I'd really like to have the option of doing to save tuition / travel if I get the return offer.
Ahh, gotchu. I'm also at a semi/low target, and the math major here effectively requires either taking analysis or algebra (though you can get around it with alternatives that happen to be a lot harder like topology or grad-level stuff).
Ngl, I think graduating early is kinda overrated, and assuming you go to a semester school, you'll have a good 2 months of time before FT training to go travel. Unless it is really a large financial burden to have to stay that last semester, I'd just stick around and make the most of what could be the last time you'll be in a formal academic setting, and of course, socialize a lot and have fun.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights and advice for your situation:
GPA Concerns:
Course Withdrawal:
Dropping the Math Major:
Perception at Your Bank:
Long-Term Strategy:
In summary, withdrawing from the abstract algebra class and dropping to a math minor could be a prudent decision to protect your GPA and ensure you remain competitive for your upcoming role at the bank.
Sources: Need Help - College student with some major problems, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/dilemma-quantitative-finance-vs-finance?customgpt=1, Easy A classes?, Lied about my GPA to get a summer analyst position but came to my senses., On the off chance Investment Banking doesn't work out for me
Economics major so cringe bro keep math
PE recruiters care about GPA
I would drop it
A D will severely impact your GPA for PE recruiting, and a second major doesn't really add anything to your resume. And no one cares one lick about your major at cocktail parties once you graduate college.
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