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Passing the QUALS

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By egalois
Posted Mon Aug 14, 2006 at 06:51:06 AM PDT

Hello. I was a graduate student about a year ago at a very good math program. I couldn't pass my last qualifying exam (out of 3) in the program, so I decided to stop and go into the industry. During the day I work full time and at nights I go and teach at a local community college. I love the teaching, and I miss the research. Lately, I've been thinking much to go back and finish my Ph.D. Perhaps trying one more time at the qualifier or to transfer some where and finish it there. However, I don't know if I am strong enough to finish it up? I've passed pretty difficult quals at the institute, but the last qual kept me hanging... So I was wondering if there's anyone out there that has been hung up by the quals, and if they've ever left the program and then gone back in later on in their life. If you could share your experience that would be greatly appreciated... Thanks much.

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Passing the QUALS | 1 comment (1 topical, 0 hidden)

[new] not me, but I know someone (none / 0) (#1)
by Vanes63 on Thu Mar 27, 2008 at 09:54:59 AM PDT

I have a friend (I know, that sounds so cliche) who that has actually happened to.

He was in a Ph.D. program and the analysis qualifier hung him up. He started in the Ph.D. program here but the program was just beginning and hit some snags.

I think it just depends on the individual to be honest. Every mathematician is different (as we are all just people and people are different) so not every mathematician loves every single type of math.

I am pretty open about the fact that analysis is not my best area. Even algebra I am not too crazy about. But I love graph theory and topology. While I still use analysis and algebra to work on some things it is no longer exactly the bane of my existence. Not exactly anyways lol.

Since this story was posted a while ago I'd like a little update on where life has taken you since you last posted. Have you thought more about going back into a program? Have you applied to a program and are now studying math? Have you been working with local mathematicians on some new research or just learning some math for the sake of just doing something? I'm curious to know about where you are now in your mathematical journey :).

Passing the QUALS | 1 comment (1 topical, 0 hidden)

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