Data structures vs Stochastic processes

[Quantfinguy]

Hi All,

I have the option of either taking data structures and analysis (comp science) or stochastic processes in the next term. Which one adds more value - in terms of getting into a top rated MFE program?
Also which is more useful course in terms of preparation for the actual industry ?

Thanks

 

[bigbadwolf]

I have the option of either taking data structures and analysis (comp science) or stochastic processes in the next term.

What's the language for the structures and algos course?

 

[Quantfinguy]

Language is not known in advance. It depends on the professor. Usually it is Python.

 

[bigbadwolf]

Language is not known in advance. It depends on the professor. Usually it is Python.

Then I'd toss a coin. If it was C/C++ based, I'd go for the structures and algos course. There are many C++ courses around but they're not going into any great depth and most of the "deep" books I see on C and C++ were written several years ago (i.e., they suggest going into depth in C/C++ is not in vogue today). A C/C++ based course in algos and structures would have added incommensurably to your power as a coder.

 

[Quantfinguy]

okay..thanks. But wouldn't it help to learn data structure in any object oriented language and then later try it out in C/C++. Recently, I read that the importance of derivative pricing and the knowledge of stochastic calculus is exaggerated and in fact computer/programming skills are more important in today's world.

 

[bigbadwolf]

okay..thanks. But wouldn't it help to learn data structure in any object oriented language and then later try it out in C/C++. Recently, I read that the importance of derivative pricing and the knowledge of stochastic calculus is exaggerated and in fact computer/programming skills are more important in today's world.

It's pointers you want to learn to use with dexterity -- that's where C and C++ derive their power from. When you use "self-referential structures" in C/C++ to build linked lists, stacks, queues, trees, and so on, you have to use pointers with dexterity. That's a skill you want. You won't pick that up from Java or C# or Python.

Yes, coding skills take precedence. But you want to parse the word "skills" and see what it means, what it should mean. The word is used glibly but no-one indicates in detail what it denotes and how to acquire it.

 

[Quantfinguy]

Thank you for your insightful reply.