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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]I majored in math and econ, got an M.B.A., and worked for a broker-dealer on Wall Street.

Many "math" majors actually study statistics or applied math.  Math and especially physics majors are low-maintenance.  They are comfortable with computers, different operating systems, and learning new software.

Economics majors don't learn much about business.  They don't know debits from credits, or stocks from bonds.  Business majors don't know much, but they can wear a suit and understand the job.  You don't need to be a business major.  But that does not excuse you from being ignorant about the company and job.  If you are applying to Wall Street, then you need to understand the difference between investment banking and sales and trading.  You need to read the company's annual report, etc.

Math majors can easily pass the first two or three actuary exams.  It is an excellent high-paying, low-stress occupation.

My math major friends at NSA did a lot of IT work.  [/quote]

Is there a big advantage in getting an applied math degree vs a pure math degree for job prospects? I have a mathy, navel-grazing kid, whom I'd like to steer towards a sensible path.[/quote]

I don’t think so if you are talking undergrad level. Any entry level “mathy” jobs would be accessible to either.

Also, (again talking only entry level,  just graduated from college jobs) in my experience some pps are underestimating the [b]“you must be really smart” aspect.[/b] Not saying it’s valid but things like math and physics intimidate lots of people and I think these grads get a little boost at the beginning because of people assuming they must be very bright. [/quote]

People who have that level of understanding tend to apply this reasoning to boys only[/quote]

My math/physics-loving kid happens to be a girl, and this is my concern too. [/quote]
It's sadly very very true. The career outcomes between my peers who are woman versus men is startling, and we all majored in pure math. Department awards 9 times out of 10 went to men, even though there wasn't a single man in the top 5. My career accelerated, while many peers of mine who are women did not get the special "Oh wow, math! I couldn't ever do that" treatment.

I actually submitted a formal complaint to the department and talked with the chair about this issue, and his response: no woman has complained about it, so why would it be an issue? You can imagine how much I've contacted him afterwards :roll: [/quote]

DP: I really hope this was a while ago and that you preserved in your complaints (for my D's and others' sake)! Mine is very fortunate to have several female professors who are encouraging. [/quote]

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