Particle_Man

Okay, I've enrolled at Boston University as an undeclared and am considering 5 possibilities.

Mechanical Engineering
Math + Philosophy
Math + Economics
Math + Computer Science
Math + Biology

Sort of in order from the ones I'm most interested in to least interested. However, I'd like somebody with some knowledge on these various majors to give me some insight to the job markets, job satisfaction, and what kinds of careers I could get with each of these. Answers are probably going to be a bit long, so thanks in advance.

Particle_Man

I guess I should have included a bit more information:

Mechanical Engineering - Sounds like something I'd enjoy and would be fairly successful at. I love making things, putting things together, and figuring out how machines work. I know nothing about the job market, and from what I hear, salaries can be low and working conditions less than satisfactory.

Math + Philosophy - Also sounds like something I'd really enjoy. However, it also seems more like preparation for grad school, and I'm not sure yet if that's something I'm going to do.

Math + Economics - Most lucrative, but economics seem a bit boring. I've never actually taken a class though, so I could be completely wrong.

Math + Computer Science - I took 2 programming classes in highschool, both in QBASIC (you had to take a third year of programming to get to Java, and that didn't work with my schedule). I did really well and enjoyed the class, but I don't think I could sit in front of a computer for 8 hours/day.

Math + Biology - I just like Biology. I'm not actually sure what this dual-major could be used for other than med school, so it's at the bottom of my list.

meltymervin

do a math major, whatever you do. I cannot guarantee that you will be happy, but look at this sheet Why Should I Be A Math Major? .
In my experience, employers tend to favor math majors also, even pure math, so if you aren't planning on academia, math is still a great major. Most Employers want great problem solvers, who think outside the box on each problem, AND who are correct almost every time; this is what math trains you to do. But, for the love of god, do math, even if you go into mech engineering. I am a pure math major, and have already found that people look favorably upon this major when considering hiring because it shows that you challenge yourself constantly and never take the easy way out. long to short, it not only gives you the advantage of being good at math, it teaches problem solving and quick problem solving at that.
The second reason ( and more important in my opinion) is love for the subject. If you like math, you will always be looking forward to classes, hell even tests in math seem fun if you are that crazy about the subject. It is possibly the most intellectually rewarding major to pursue, considering the amazing types of thinking you will be introduced to. (please don't get me into a discussion about my love/hat relation w/godel's theorem )
Sorry about begging you to do math, even when you have 4 possible major choices which include math. Remember, problem solving skills and math literacy will ALWAYS be needed without qualification, the job market for anything technology based could easily drop out.


As to the second major- philosophy-

lville

My opinion is that you can't make a horribly bad decision between those unless one turns out to be something you truly despise. For what I've read and hear, one of the most desirable characteristics to employers is strong math skills which a math or engineering major would obviously cover.

I would l narrow down the biology and mechanical engineering option by asking yourself do you like bio or physics better. The only thing i really know about bio careers is your either a biologist or on your way to med school. Other than that, I don't see bio applying to much. Unless you really like bio or want to become a doctor, I would choose M.E.

After that, look at whether you like working with numbers ideas or a mixture. Honestly, i'm a math person, so i really don't like philosophy and see no great options that a philosophy major would lead to. Another thing to consider is that it will be extremely unlikely that you find a job utilizing both philosophy and math.

I don't really know that much about CS, but I think the economics is a great option. You can find careers that utilize both. Also, if I am right in assuming there is a part of you that likes working with ideas (since philosophy was your 2nd choice) as well as numbers, econ + math would be the best option.

b@r!um

I guess the first thing to decide is, do you want to major in mechanical engineering or math + ___ ? If you want to go into engineering, your schedule would probably be tailored around engineering and you would not have a lot of time to explore other subjects. (You would probably spend your first year taking calc, physics, engineering, maybe chemistry and some core requirements.)

If you want to rule out mechanical engineering, I would suggest you take math, philosophy, economics and if your schedule permits either computer science or biology in your first semester to explore your options. You might find that you don't like one of these subjects so much after taking a class in it - it would make your decision a lot easier! I am a math major and though I like following the reasonings of various philosophers a lot, the sheer amount of reading and writing required makes me not want to take another philosophy class.

Particle_Man

Very helpful, thanks a lot.