#1258 overall
Math 55
Harvard University
1 recommender · 1 thread · recommended in 1 year, 2014 · score 0.7
Math 55 is Harvard's famously intensive undergraduate course in abstract and proof-based mathematics, covering topics like group theory, linear algebra, and analysis at a rigorous, theory-first pace. It is known for demanding problem sets and a heavy workload.
Commenters call it an incredible class, pointing to it as a standout example of Harvard's theoretical math training.
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20062026
There was a reply that just got deleted. Here's an excerpt that was relevant.
If your interests change over the course of your first couple years in school, Harvard has a very solid program in basically any subject you can think of, and changing your field of concentration is very easy. If you decide what you really love is ancient middle-eastern history, or Russian literature, or whatever, MIT will be less convenient.
To also elaborate on the now-deleted comment...
I'm probably a bit too rough on Harvard's math/science departments. They are much more theoretical, meaning the graduates will work in labs or become professors rather than go into engineering. The commenter cited Math 55, which is indeed an incredible class. Many folks at MIT end up doubling math/CS or math/physics, so the pure math group is smaller there.
The "work your ass off" bit just means to not get soft and coast. When the carrot in front disappears, lots of people are lost. You need to learn to develop your own carrot and push yourself.
Oh, and I stand corrected. Al Gore and Tommy Lee Jones were only across the hall as freshmen. They were roommates after that. :)