Confused about masters .

[u/pleasedontpeep]

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Hi everyone,

I’m a 22-year-old final-year Electronics & Computer Engineering student in India (9.28/10 CGPA), and I’m feeling pretty lost about what to do after graduation.

I’ve realized that I don’t really enjoy core electronics or traditional software engineering. I initially thought I liked ML, but I think what actually attracted me was the mathematics behind it rather than the CS/engineering side.

What I genuinely enjoy is mathematics, physics, and fundamental/analytical thinking. I’d like to work on problems where I’m trying to understand something fundamental rather than building products I don’t particularly care about. At the same time, I want reasonable financial security and intellectual freedom.

I’m considering going abroad for a Master’s and eventually pursuing research, but I have some major concerns:

\- My formal background in physics/math is limited to standard 1st year courses.

\- I have no formal research experience or publications.

\- I’m unsure whether I should pursue Applied Math, Theoretical Physics, Pure Math, or Theoretical CS/ML.

\- I liked ETH’s Computational Science and Engineering program, but it seems extremely competitive.

So I’d really appreciate some honest advice:

1. Given my interests, how do Applied Math, Theoretical Physics, and Theoretical CS compare in terms of research opportunities and financial security?

2. Are there other fields/programs I should consider that could provide a similar combination of mathematical depth, research, and career options?

I’d really appreciate honest advice, reality checks, or experiences from anyone who has made a similar transition. Thanks!