<p>As someone who wants to major in math and is interested in more theoretical math, I want to take the 50H series. But from what I've heard, the class is extremely difficult and the majority drops out in the first 2 weeks. So is there anyone out there who has taken the 50H series that can comment on it? Is it worth the time and effort?</p>
<p>Thanks so much!</p>
<p>PM Sly Si.</p>
<p>Hi! If you're pretty sure you're a math major, and think you'll be doing theoretical math, 50H might be right for you. Two important questions:
1. Have you done a proof-based course before? "Two-column" proofs from high school geometry don't count.
2. Have you had any introduction to multivariable calc?
If you can say yes to both, you should definitely start in 50H. If no to both, don't cross 50H off your list, but you might want to rethink it.</p>
<p>No matter what, if you're thinking about it, go to the first few lectures and see how you like it. When I took it, we had 90-100 people in lecture for the first week. Then the first problem set came out, and all but 30-40 switched to regular 50 series. So there's nothing hard about switching down a week in.</p>
<p>I personally think 50H is well worth it; you get to learn a lot of cool math (especially in winter quarter), and it really gets you in gear in terms of being prepared for the rest of the undergrad curriculum. The 50H students tend to form a social group as well, so you'll meet the people who you'll be studying and working with for the next four years. Lastly, Leon Simon (your prof fall and winter) is amazing.</p>
<p>Let me know if you--or anyone else looking into 50H--have any more questions.</p>
<p>Hi Sly Si, thanks for your response. I think I'm going to shop 51H and see if it's manageable. Still have a couple questions though. If I do end up dropping down to the regular 50 series, would that rule out becoming a math major? Or are there math majors who take the regular 50 series? Also, will taking the 50H series hinder me if I decide to major in something like economics, which requires more computational math?</p>
<p>Thanks again.</p>
<p>There are definitely math majors who take the 50 series. If you want to do an honors major, I think 50H is required, but you can do 50 series and still major in math. I wouldn't worry about the possibility of switching majors. If you can survive the H series, you'll be able to pick up any computational things you missed on your own when you need it.</p>
<p>Okay thanks so much!</p>