Advice for a sophomore undergrad aiming for biostatistics phd

[FloodGates]

Hi everyone, I am currently a sophomore in undergrad, and I am majoring in Statistics and Biochemistry. My interest in biostatistics stems from my experience in my science classes, and I was under the impression that biostatistics admissions might look favorably on a science/stats major combo. After a little research and observing applicants on this forum, it might be in my best interest to stack math classes more in order to gain a competitive edge instead of sticking to the sciences. I love my science degree, and it is allowing me to work in a statistical genetics lab because lab work is required for the degree. I could complete my lab work, which will conclude a biochemistry minor, and then pick up a math minor instead. This would allow me to take real analysis and diff eq's as well as some extra stats electives like stochastics and probability. My initial game plan was to fulfill the linear algebra and calc III requirements and leave it at the minimum to make room for biochemistry. Will graduating with a stat major + math minor + biochem minor make me more competitive than a Stat/Biochem major? Thanks!

[cyberwulf]

Will graduating with a stat major + math minor + biochem minor make me more competitive than a Stat/Biochem major?

Yes. Assuming you do well in the additional math courses, having more math will definitely help you much more than a few additional biochem courses.

Edited April 23, 2013 by cyberwulf

[Agradatudent]

Don't assume real analysis will go well!

[coffeehouse]

Although Linear algebra and Calc III are the minimum requirements, you will definitely need Math Stats and Probability at the very least.