Hi guys. I’m a transfer student and I’ve admitted at 2 different school for next semester.
I want to ask you guys if you have any opinion or advice for my future college life based on my current concerns. I’ve
admitted math entry level major at UT and Texas A&M computer science. Since I really wanted to study computer science, I
just want to accept Texas A&M, but I have to live apart and I probably struggle economically like a lot. my last option is
driving to college station, but I live in Austin so it takes 2 hours one-way. UT is my dream school but they put me in 2nd
choice of major which is math. if I go to UT I won’t be struggle as much as going to A&M, don’t have to worry about where to
live, very close. but honestly, I put math as my 2nd choice only because they told me to do so in applyTexas. so I’m not
interested in that major too much. but I can’t stop thinking about internal transfer to CS major even though I know it’s really
hard to get in.
How do you guys think about my situation? please comment below 
That is a really hard decision to make. If there is any way to make CS at A&M work, I would do it. If the pressure and stress over money would make that decision unworkable or too stressful, look at other options at UT. They do have a CS certificate that you could get. I don’t know if there are other classes like web design or mobile applications that are outside of CS that you could take. At UTD, these are in the IT area and open to everybody. Alot of CS is done outside of class. They expect you to be learning new languages and doing personal projects outside of class. It would make your path harder but you would graduate with a degree from UT and you would do alot of self learning which is a good thing. In CS, you have to continually upgrade your skills. You would be learning that skill earlier than most.
Going to A&M would make the path easier for you but if the money issues threaten you getting a degree I would go to UT and try to work as much CS into it as possible.
You are too young to give up on your dreams.
My first thought is to go to A&M for what you want and extend the program to 5-years. During that time, do 2 or 3 co-op/internships (all paid) that will allow you to work in Austin where you can save $$$. You will graduate with little debt, have 1 yr+ experience. Talk to an A&M advisor about this. I believe during co-ops you only pay for 1 credit hour, so this really is not a increase in cost commitment.
My second thought is that my father, who ended up in life with a MS in Computer Science, had his BS in Math. Why? - because back before there was a CS major, that was the closest major (face it - computer’s are math wrapped around logic). That’s the major where IBM, GE, and Univac recruited for computer programmers, etc. So you can take a BS in math, take electives in computers (maybe a minor or certificate program in computing if they offer it). Then, look to going for a MS degree in Computer Science. Remember, it is normal for graduate work in the sciences to be coupled with sponsored research and tuition/stipend will be paid for by your sponsor (so you can go anywhere and you will get paid for going - albeit not a lot). An math undergrad and a MS in CS may be a stronger combination!
My advice is to strategize beyond next year to make the right choice. Only you can do that. Just don’t “settle” now for the option you don’t want if it sacrifices your career. Good luck.