http://www.maa.org/sites/default/files/pdf/Mathhorizons/supplement/MH-CoreyWeb.pdf
The most asked question in math class is some variation of "When am I ever going to use this?” In fact, I began typing this question into a search engine, and every one of the
10 popular completions for "when am I ever going to use . . .” dealt with school mathematics. Now, as a student, I know this question is a compelling one. Of course, some students ask it as a challenge to the teacher, using it to mean “Prove to me that I need this in my life.” However, some students ask it sincerely, honestly wanting to know how it might be used in the future.