3 answers
Sam
Student
Elk River, Minnesota
2
Questions
Asked
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how do I decide between Programming and Astronomy?
I like both of the subjects and I excel at every subject and I like almost everything so it makes it difficult to decide.
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3 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1360
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey again Sam!
First off, I just want to say — having so many interests and excelling at different subjects is a superpower, not a burden. You're like a cosmic explorer with the mind of a coder, and that’s honestly a rare combo.
If you're torn between programming and astronomy, here's the secret: you don't have to choose just one, AS I mentioned before too. The universe (literally) has space for both. 😏✨ There’s an entire field called computational astrophysics where scientists use programming to simulate galaxies, analyze space data, and even discover exoplanets. It’s like building the code that helps unlock the universe's secrets — how cool is that? So just check it out if it interests you. That ay you cna go for both if you got interests in them.
If you're trying to figure out which one lights you up more, try this: pay attention to how you feel when you're doing both. Does solving a tricky coding problem make you feel like a wizard unlocking hidden knowledge? Or does staring up at the night sky and learning about black holes make your heart race?
You can always pursue one as a career and keep the other as a passion project. Plenty of programmers spend their nights stargazing, and plenty of astronomers write code to understand the cosmos better.
Try blending them with small projects — like building a little app that tracks stars or coding a simulation of how planets orbit the sun. The journey of figuring it out is just as important as the final decision.
No matter which path you take, you're destined to make some cosmic-level discoveries. Keep following what sparks your curiosity — the universe will guide you where you're meant to go.
Wishing you clear skies and clean code! 🌌💻 Hope ti's helps and all the best!
First off, I just want to say — having so many interests and excelling at different subjects is a superpower, not a burden. You're like a cosmic explorer with the mind of a coder, and that’s honestly a rare combo.
If you're torn between programming and astronomy, here's the secret: you don't have to choose just one, AS I mentioned before too. The universe (literally) has space for both. 😏✨ There’s an entire field called computational astrophysics where scientists use programming to simulate galaxies, analyze space data, and even discover exoplanets. It’s like building the code that helps unlock the universe's secrets — how cool is that? So just check it out if it interests you. That ay you cna go for both if you got interests in them.
If you're trying to figure out which one lights you up more, try this: pay attention to how you feel when you're doing both. Does solving a tricky coding problem make you feel like a wizard unlocking hidden knowledge? Or does staring up at the night sky and learning about black holes make your heart race?
You can always pursue one as a career and keep the other as a passion project. Plenty of programmers spend their nights stargazing, and plenty of astronomers write code to understand the cosmos better.
Try blending them with small projects — like building a little app that tracks stars or coding a simulation of how planets orbit the sun. The journey of figuring it out is just as important as the final decision.
No matter which path you take, you're destined to make some cosmic-level discoveries. Keep following what sparks your curiosity — the universe will guide you where you're meant to go.
Wishing you clear skies and clean code! 🌌💻 Hope ti's helps and all the best!
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
Hanna
Thank you for sharing your perspective.
Sam
Thank you, Dr for the advice.
Girls
Thank you, Dr for the advice.
Girls
I also have interests in theoretical physics and string theory and the only programming I have experience in is game programming, I rely on things like raycasting for almost everything I do with programming so I struggle when I try to program something in real life because of the lack of control of variables, information, and tools. but I will try what you said, have a good day!
Sam
Ohh Sam,
That's some next-level cosmic brain energy right there!
I totally get what you're saying about game programming giving you that sense of control — you're literally the master of your own little universe, setting the rules and making everything behave exactly how you want. The shift to real-world programming can feel like trying to herd cats with a rubber band at first. But here's the secret: the universe does have rules — they're just sneakily buried under layers of chaos. That's exactly what physics (and especially string theory) is all about — peeling back those layers to find the hidden code running underneath everything.
Dr H
What you're struggling with isn't a weakness — it's your brain noticing the difference between building a world and understanding one. That frustration? That's the spark of a real scientist.
Try starting with small physics-based projects like simulating gravity or particle motion — stuff that mimics how nature actually works. Once you crack that, you'll start seeing the universe like one big cosmic game engine, just with messier code. And something tells me if anyone's going to crack the cheat codes of the universe, it's you.
Keep chasing that curiosity, Sam. You're already on the path — the universe is just waiting for you to unlock the next level. Have A great day
Dr H
Yu're so welcome, Hanna! I'm really glad I could help. Wishing you all the best on your journey, you've got this!
Dr H
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
965
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Sam,
Hope you're doing great! Honestly, you’re in an amazing position, excelling in multiple subjects and loving both programming and astronomy. That kind of curiosity and talent will take you far, no matter what path you choose. The good news is, you don’t have to pick one and completely let go of the other. There are ways to blend both, like computational astrophysics, data science in space research, or even software development for astronomical simulations.
If you’re struggling to decide, try thinking about what excites you on a daily basis. Do you enjoy writing code, building applications, and solving technical problems? Or do you feel more drawn to understanding the universe, studying celestial bodies, and exploring space-related mysteries? Also, consider the kind of work environment you'd enjoy, programming often offers flexibility and remote work, while astronomy might involve research, observatories, and field studies.
You could also explore both fields through side projects, internships, or coursework to see which one resonates with you more. And if choosing still feels impossible, remember that one can be your main career while the other remains a passion or side pursuit. The most important thing is to follow what excites you and keeps you motivated long-term. No matter what you decide, your skills and interests will always find a way to complement each other.
Best wishes!
Hope you're doing great! Honestly, you’re in an amazing position, excelling in multiple subjects and loving both programming and astronomy. That kind of curiosity and talent will take you far, no matter what path you choose. The good news is, you don’t have to pick one and completely let go of the other. There are ways to blend both, like computational astrophysics, data science in space research, or even software development for astronomical simulations.
If you’re struggling to decide, try thinking about what excites you on a daily basis. Do you enjoy writing code, building applications, and solving technical problems? Or do you feel more drawn to understanding the universe, studying celestial bodies, and exploring space-related mysteries? Also, consider the kind of work environment you'd enjoy, programming often offers flexibility and remote work, while astronomy might involve research, observatories, and field studies.
You could also explore both fields through side projects, internships, or coursework to see which one resonates with you more. And if choosing still feels impossible, remember that one can be your main career while the other remains a passion or side pursuit. The most important thing is to follow what excites you and keeps you motivated long-term. No matter what you decide, your skills and interests will always find a way to complement each other.
Best wishes!
Thank you so much for the advice.
Hanna
Thank you so much, Chinyere!
Girls
You're welcome!
Chinyere Okafor
Mavis Bajah
Veterinarian
3
Answers
Abuja, FCT, Nigeria
Updated
Mavis’s Answer
Hello Sam, I believe the only person who can answer this question is you I can only guide you into making that decision
It all boils down to passion or purpose, what do you love doing most? What are you great with? You like computers? Do you know the basics? Do you like technology? Or are you more interested in stars or planets , astrology in general?
Or does what you love most have the least financial standing?.. which is more achievable?...
These are questions you need to ask yourself, let the universe provide you with an answer
I hope you find what is best for you Sam
It all boils down to passion or purpose, what do you love doing most? What are you great with? You like computers? Do you know the basics? Do you like technology? Or are you more interested in stars or planets , astrology in general?
Or does what you love most have the least financial standing?.. which is more achievable?...
These are questions you need to ask yourself, let the universe provide you with an answer
I hope you find what is best for you Sam
This was super helpful, thank you!
Hanna