Nerdiness at Yale

Isaac9
Sun, 05 Apr 2015 20:42:53 +0000

Hi Mathinduction,

I think that you’d probably enjoy Yale, especially since you “fell in love with it” during your visit. If you feel an affinity for Yale and sense that it resonates with your personality, take that seriously! It’s a big part of what “fit” means.

My son is a current freshman (prospective math major) and has interests that I think are likely as “nerdy” as yours. He’s adjusted well to Yale culture & living on his own and is enjoying himself. He began with Math 310 (the professor a Fields Medal winner) in the fall term and is currently enrolled in two other 300-level math courses. He’s also taken Physics 260/261, as well as more advanced level economics and philosophy courses. He’s involved in several (non-STEM but nonetheless nerdy!) extracurricular groups and also meets weekly with a group of physics classmates to solve problem sets. These sessions reportedly are a lot of fun and last until 3 am or later. He’s found no shortage of interesting things to do. I’m sure you’d find many enjoyable activities at Yale, too.

Again, don’t undervalue the positive vibes you’ve felt. I may be more than just a little biased, but I think that the students at more technical colleges such as MIT and Caltech are, on average, not as happy, especially in freshman year. I Think Yale students are not only happier, but get a more balanced and true college experience.