I was hoping for some academic advice on future steps.

About a year ago, after taking statics (for engineering), it dawned on me that I wanted to pursue physics – I found that the questions I was interested in (why and how things are) were quite different than those asked in engineering; however, the college I am going to does not have a physics degree, and I am graduating in Spring 28 and have a current GPA of 3.97 (got a B in CS networking).. I will graduate with majors in general engineering and mathematics with minors in chemistry and computer science. After discussing the topic with some of the professors, I decided transferring to another university wouldn’t necessarily be better than finishing here (though I would appreciate your input here).

Thankfully, my academic advisor has been very flexible on what I take, encouraging pursuit of topics of interest. In this I have acquired a solid foundation in math (calculus, real analysis, point set topology, abstract algebra, etc.), core engineering, computer science, and chemistry through quantitative chemical analysis. In addition, I am doing a three semester (potentially more) undergraduate chemistry research program, where I am exploring an intersection of electricity and 1H-NMR spectroscopy.

While these have been amazing, and I’ve learned a lot from my professors (who are excellent), there is a gaping hole regarding physics. Namely, classical mechanics (though there is a dynamics course in engineering, but not quite the same), statistical mechanics, electromagnetism, and quantum mechanics (beyond introductory). I have studied on my own, though certainly not a substantial amount, on these topics and have solidified my decision to study physics.

Thus, I would go into theoretical or mathematical physics through graduate school. Though I have a lot to learn, I have greatly enjoyed my math and chemistry, especially more abstract concepts, and find the idea of asking why and how the universe works intriguing. At this point I have spent many hours in the laboratory working, and although it is very interesting and valuable, my intrigue aligns with what I have seen of the theoretical side. There is the option of chemical physics, but that's not where my interest lies (having taken chemistry).

Hopefully that gives you an idea of where I’m coming from. I would love to hear your thoughts on how to proceed with both self-study (or even online courses) to cover what I am lacking and looking for graduate programs. (1) should I transfer or stay? (2) What books that would be best (and what order)? (3) Any suggestions for how to best learn the materials? (4) how realistic is it to be admitted to theory programs with my background, and how might I show I'm prepared? (5) Thoughts on my reasoning for theoretical physics? (6) Do you have suggestions for specializations to think about pursuing? (7) Any university suggestions (I plan on reaching out by mid-November to ask about programs and hopefully visiting in the spring)?

Thank you so much for your time!