Transferring from Bucknell to Wake Forest as a Mathematical Economics Major

I am considering a transfer from Bucknell to Wake Forest next fall. I am a sophomore currently majoring in Mathematical Economics with a Statistical Track. I love the program at Bucknell, but the overall atmosphere of Bucknell is something I am not a fan of. Wake Forest is closer to home and also offers a Mathematical Economics degree. It seems like Wake Forest’s program is less rigorous and definitely includes fewer classes. It would be nice to take fewer classes, but in terms of finding a job or going to grad school, it might not look as good. I will always put academics above student life, and would only make the transfer if Wake Forest is at least as good as Bucknell’s program, but hopefully better. If anyone has any additional information on Wake Forest’s program (especially if you can compare it to Bucknell’s) that would help me out a lot.

Hi…i saw no one replied to your post. Just curious, I would think Wake is better than Bucknell. I am from NJ and would think Bucknell is an easier school to get in. What makes you think Wake would be easier/harder to get a job? I would think the opposite.

Is it the social scene at Bucknell which bothers you ? Both schools have a similar culture with respect to alcohol.

It’s my understanding that the student population and social scene is very similar at both schools. What is it exactly about Bucknell that you don’t like. My daughter has applied to both schools.

@citymama9 I agree. I would think the social scene is similar at both. Wake has the D1 sports and is bigger, and has a little city.

Is it still known as “work forest”?

@collegemomjam Yep, that’s what I’ve heard.

With respect to faculty scholarship in economics, an indicator of department strength, Bucknell places 35th in its category: https://ideas.repec.org/top/top.uslacecon.html. Wake Forest does not appear within the top quarter of its respective category: https://ideas.repec.org/top/top.usecondept.html. As opinion, if you are thinking of transferring, you might find better choices available.