Pursuing a Double Major in Mathematics and Philosophy: Career Prospects and Strategies
When considering a double major in mathematics and philosophy, it is natural to wonder if such a choice will impact your employability. While there are certainly legitimate concerns about how to best position this degree for the job market, it is important to recognize that a double major in these two fields can, in fact, be highly employable. However, it is crucial to adopt a strategic approach to enhance your profile and increase your chances of landing a great job after graduation.
Strategic Positioning and Resume Enhancement
To effectively navigate potential gaps in specialized knowledge, consider the following recommendations:
Internships
Before graduating, completing internships is highly advisable. These not only provide hands-on experience but also help you develop specific skills that are relevant to your chosen field. In addition to internships, participate in semi-professional student organizations. This involvement can help you build a network and demonstrate your commitment and enthusiasm.
Technical Skills and Projects
While the combination of philosophy and mathematics is a strong academic foundation, it is essential to complement these with practical, marketable skills. Consider picking up some programming and data science skills. Completing a few projects using these skills will add significant weight to your resume and make you a more appealing candidate for potential employers.
Complementary Degree or Nanodegree
A Computer Science (CS) minor, or even better, a nanodegree in data analysis from Udacity, can significantly enhance your employability. The skills you gain from such a program are in high demand and can be applied to a wide range of industries.
Logics and Programming Languages
To further bridge the gap between your philosophical and mathematical skills and practical job market needs, consider learning a logic programming language such as Prolog. Knowledge in Prolog or a similar language can be a valuable asset, helping you to land a job and demonstrate your problem-solving and analytical abilities.
Personal Development and Self-Motivation
Ultimately, the employability of a double major in mathematics and philosophy depends greatly on the individual. The combination of strong problem-solving skills and communication abilities provided by a philosophical education, coupled with robust mathematical skills, can be a highly valued combination in many industries. Successful candidates are those who:
Perform well academically Show a strong work ethic Are proactive in seeking out opportunities Are adaptable and flexibleSuccess Stories
Personal anecdotes and success stories can provide valuable insight. For example, the author of this article, who double majored in philosophy and physics with significant mathematics courses, graduated a semester early and received offers from Tier 1 tech companies, venture capital firms, and startups. Many students with similar backgrounds have also found themselves successfully employed, some even in academic roles, after graduating.
The combination of philosophy and mathematics is unique and can be highly employable, especially when accompanied by strategic steps to enhance your profile and skills set. By adopting a proactive and well-rounded approach, you can leverage the strengths of your double major to secure a fulfilling and lucrative career.