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PhD in Math Programs- ultra-competitive? | 6 comments (6 topical, 0 hidden)
[new] SACNAS (none / 0) (#2)
by Vanes63 on Mon Jul 31, 2006 at 07:20:28 AM PDT

Although this does not answer all your questions, I will give you a partial answer to at least one question right now and attempt another answer when I have some more time to sit down at the computer and really give this some time.

Your situation is a lot more common than I think you realize and yet still many people get their Ph.D's lol. So I think you are in a good boat, but working hard at making good --> better never hurt anyone.

"I am a Native American and I do know there are fellowships open to minorities, but I don't know how much this would help an admission decision. Certainly programs like Iowa are very geared towards this."

The Society for the Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science [SACNAS] can help you find some programs that are geared towards minorities, like Iowa, and can provide some guidance and support through one of their many mentor programs.

Mind you, there are not an abundance of mathematicians on the site (I am Mexican-American/Native American and am pretty afraid of "not fitting in" to a program, so I usually try to find people I can get along with and sympathize), but the National Conference is a blast and I would 100% recommend going. It is in October, so that presents a problem in terms of keeping up with work, but they have workshops on finding fellowships, math institutes near the beginning of the conference, many mixers, excellent speakers during the meals, and just a treasure-trove of experiences you can find no where else.

The exhibits are also a must-see because not only are prospective departments there, looking for students, but research opportunities, graduate students and professors.

I believe you can really find out if a program fits you while you are there. So check it out and see if SACNAS is a good fit for you. I found it gives me an outlet and a good refresher during the school year. It looks like I will not be able to attend this year (unfortunately) because I will be starting my first semester of an MS program, but I will try really hard to go next year so I can present a talk.


  • Scholarships by Vanes63, 07/31/2006 07:24:18 PDT (none / 0)

PhD in Math Programs- ultra-competitive? | 6 comments (6 topical, 0 hidden)
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