Data science isn't that bad. Personally, it's all about the problem. If you're working on models for selling dog food it's boring, but if you're doing something half worthwhile with some complex relationships that you're actually interested in, then it's fun. Too many data 'scientists' detach themselves from problems which is really what you shouldn't do.
If you don't like it though, go for one of the other applied math fields. Some find Operations Research more interesting, although it's a different flavor of organizational math. Others find modeling like water flow to be pretty interesting (although you're almost stepping into engineering). Some find doing quant/finance/stock work to be interesting (personally I find it to be pretty cool, very complex systems).
You have to enjoy applied problems though, and the joy of applied problems comes with thinking what you can do with a solution after you have it. Actually pushing through to the solution is a bit boring.
Also, if you really hate it, go back to school part-time, pick up a masters in a subject you like. Make yourself so specialized that you can just kind of waltz into academia when you want.
T. DoD Op. Research Wagie
>>14240789Yeah, it's way better to spin your wheels in academia doing nothing of even remote importance.
