1. Graduate School in Mathematics
What to Prepare for and What to Expect

2. Is graduate program the right choice for you?
Time commitment: years (Master), 5 years (PhD)
During graduate study: little allowances/earning, but more flexible schedule, quite hard to relocate
Career outlook after graduation:
Academia (research, teaching)
Industrial (hedge fund, bank, technology, pharmaceutical companies, etc)
Government (NASA, Bureau of Cencus, etc)

3. Graduate study application
Very important:
Background preparation in Math (advanced courses) & GPA
Letters of Recommendation
Research Experiences and Publications
Important
Statement of Purposes & Resume
GRE General and GRE Subject
Less important
Extracurricular activities
Non-related job experience

4. Preparation for Application
Prepare a strong background by taking advanced undergraduate courses:
Complex/Real Analysis, Abstract Algebra, Topology/Geometry
If possible, read graduate materials in Math: Folland Real Analysis (especially Measure Theory Ch 1-3), Lang Algebra, etc
Get strong letters of recommendation
Work with Faculties on research projects (within or outside of classes)
Obtain some forms of research experience
Poster, presentation, publication

5. Preparation for Application
Statement of Purposes
Reasons for attending graduate program in Math
Related research experiences, strengths, etc
Reasons for choosing a particular school, faculties of interest
GRE tests
Plan ahead and register early!!!
GRE Subject: very comprehensive

6. Waiting for Results I got accepted to several programs!
Take times to visit their campuses, talk with current graduate students, faculties
If possible, reject the ones you don’t want soon so other applicants on the waitlist have some chances!
I got rejected by all programs I apply
Consider applying for a Master program
Find a job/internship/research opportunity and reapply later

7. Graduate study experience
Timeline of 5 years in Math PhD program
First 2 years: take graduate courses and prepare for qualifying exam
2nd and 3rd years: find potential thesis advisor, and prepare for specialized exam
3rd year to 5th year and beyond: mainly do research and prepare for thesis

8. Graduate study experience
Coursework
Very challenging, fast-paced, lots of self-study
Have tough time? Group work, office hours
Reading/taking graduate materials beforehand helps a lot!
Manage your expectation: transition time is tough for everyone
Teaching
Lead discussion sections
Prepare your own lesson plan
Outside of schoolwork
Time management is the key!
Find a source for socializing

9. Good luck with your study (and application)
Questions, comments, remarks?