8 answers
Lillian
Student
Mount Joy, Pennsylvania
3
Questions
Asked
4442 views
What is the best choice of major/ career for me? (math and physics based)
I am a 16 year old high school junior (and am planning on going to college) and I have always been interested in fields like nuclear science and astronomy. I am open, and not restricting myself to the fields above, since I do not know exactly what would be the best path for me.
-I really want to do a position including math (any type works, as long as this is a great part of the job.)
-My school is on the smaller side, so I have not had really any experience with coding or engineering (I want to know how big of an undertaking a job like the ones above will be knowing I have basically no understanding)
-I have not been able to take a physics class, but it does intrigue me, and I would like to maybe have this be a core part of my job as well (trying to figure out as well how much of a problem this would be)
-I have never really been drawn to jobs in the medical, financial or teaching world.
-I want to have a job that is transferable- it's not so incredibly specialized that I cannot get a job anywhere.
Login to comment
8 answers
Robert Rossi
Many things! But mostly chemistry and chemical engineering
83
Answers
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Updated
Robert’s Answer
Almost any engineering field (well, perhaps not Industrial Engineering) will depend primarily on math, with varying dependence on physics. The major engineering disciplines are highly transferable. So I'd counsel you to consider engineering, with the specific flavor depending in part on how much you enjoy physics, once you have had a chance to take it. But to get a terminal engineering degree you generally have to go to a larger college; if you want to attend a small college you might want to pursue an economics, (applied) math, or computer science degree instead.
Frankly, engineering programming offered at the pre-college level rarely provides helpful insight into what engineering is really like. Engineering involves a lot of math in order to avoid most of the iterative trial-and-error that pre-college engineering programming loves to focus on. That's truer in some engineering fields (like chemical and civil engineering, where a trial run costs a ton if it is even plausible) than others (where a trial costs less, like computer or mechanical engineering).
If you are curious, creative, and don't like following a pattern to solve a problem, and you are OK with failing again and again before you succeed, consider a science field instead. (Astronomy and nuclear science are both like that, astronomy appreciably more than nuclear science.) Good luck!
Frankly, engineering programming offered at the pre-college level rarely provides helpful insight into what engineering is really like. Engineering involves a lot of math in order to avoid most of the iterative trial-and-error that pre-college engineering programming loves to focus on. That's truer in some engineering fields (like chemical and civil engineering, where a trial run costs a ton if it is even plausible) than others (where a trial costs less, like computer or mechanical engineering).
If you are curious, creative, and don't like following a pattern to solve a problem, and you are OK with failing again and again before you succeed, consider a science field instead. (Astronomy and nuclear science are both like that, astronomy appreciably more than nuclear science.) Good luck!
Roel Ramon
Product Management and Development
91
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Roel’s Answer
Great questions! Since you love math and physics and want flexibility, think about majors like Physics, Mathematics, Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, or Aerospace), or Computer Science. These areas give you a strong foundation in math and physics and open up many career paths like research, tech, engineering, and data science.
It's completely normal not to have coding or physics experience yet. College will teach you the basics, and you can start with free online resources to get comfortable. Challenge yourself in math and science, explore coding when you can, and choose a major that excites you and keeps your options open.
In short, pick a major with a strong focus on math and physics, like physics, math, or engineering, and start learning some coding basics. This will give you a solid foundation and lots of flexibility for the future!
It's completely normal not to have coding or physics experience yet. College will teach you the basics, and you can start with free online resources to get comfortable. Challenge yourself in math and science, explore coding when you can, and choose a major that excites you and keeps your options open.
In short, pick a major with a strong focus on math and physics, like physics, math, or engineering, and start learning some coding basics. This will give you a solid foundation and lots of flexibility for the future!
Andrew Au
Professor of Mathematics & Statistics, Retired
224
Answers
Updated
Andrew’s Answer
We do not have a crystal ball to predict the future, nor can we ascertain your future academic interest in college and beyond. It is best to keep an open mind on our future career endeavor.
As a high-school junior considering a science career, you should start by taking STEM courses. It would be great if you had already completed Algebra I and Algebra II. It is a door opener to other STEM related courses, and even AP courses such as AP Physics, AP College Algebra, AP Calculus AB, and AP Calculus BC. Try your best to take these STEM related classes to test your interest in science and engineering.
At this point, do not worry about computer coding. Upon graduating from high school in 1971, I had only encountered computers through films and had no firsthand experience with them. I was using slide rules and four-figure tables in high school. Well, I first saw the supercomputer of the day, an IBM 360/370 in 1972, and took a course in FORTRAN coding. I was doing a lot of computer coding throughout my days as undergraduate and graduate student in physics. I ran programs in state-of-art supercomputer at NASA during my tenure as a research scientist. You will pick up computer programming as you go along with your study.
We do not know where our career will go later in life. All my degrees are in physics. However, after a two-decade sting as a research physicist, I ended up a professor in mathematics. Deep knowledge is transferable. Hence, with flexibility, you should be able to land on a suitable career path.
At this point, study hard. Take as many mathematics and physical science courses as possible to prepare you for a future academic endeavor in science and mathematics in college.
As a high-school junior considering a science career, you should start by taking STEM courses. It would be great if you had already completed Algebra I and Algebra II. It is a door opener to other STEM related courses, and even AP courses such as AP Physics, AP College Algebra, AP Calculus AB, and AP Calculus BC. Try your best to take these STEM related classes to test your interest in science and engineering.
At this point, do not worry about computer coding. Upon graduating from high school in 1971, I had only encountered computers through films and had no firsthand experience with them. I was using slide rules and four-figure tables in high school. Well, I first saw the supercomputer of the day, an IBM 360/370 in 1972, and took a course in FORTRAN coding. I was doing a lot of computer coding throughout my days as undergraduate and graduate student in physics. I ran programs in state-of-art supercomputer at NASA during my tenure as a research scientist. You will pick up computer programming as you go along with your study.
We do not know where our career will go later in life. All my degrees are in physics. However, after a two-decade sting as a research physicist, I ended up a professor in mathematics. Deep knowledge is transferable. Hence, with flexibility, you should be able to land on a suitable career path.
At this point, study hard. Take as many mathematics and physical science courses as possible to prepare you for a future academic endeavor in science and mathematics in college.
Linda Strange
Architect - Project Manager
3
Answers
Princeton, New Jersey
Updated
Linda’s Answer
With a very strong liking for math (geometry) and visual arts, I chose architecture. Physics was also something I considered studying in college. Consider how you think about things. If you think visually more than numerically or in words, then consider architecture, engineering, physics, or the arts.
Professionals in engineering tend to get paid more than architects. I'm not sure about physicists. I did read recently that there is a great need for physics instructors, high school level and above. Civil engineers manage a lot of construction projects, using their problem solving and 3D visual skills, as well as financial aptitude. Structural engineers get paid well and do a lot of mathematical calculations of design loads.
Actuarial science is lucrative and steady, in-demand work. Statistics is heavy on the math and very useful to help research teams.
I'd recommend taking courses or workshops in a variety of subjects to see what energizes you to study deeply. You could also ask to shadow professionals in various fields to see what a day at their job is like.
Enjoy exploring many paths!
Professionals in engineering tend to get paid more than architects. I'm not sure about physicists. I did read recently that there is a great need for physics instructors, high school level and above. Civil engineers manage a lot of construction projects, using their problem solving and 3D visual skills, as well as financial aptitude. Structural engineers get paid well and do a lot of mathematical calculations of design loads.
Actuarial science is lucrative and steady, in-demand work. Statistics is heavy on the math and very useful to help research teams.
I'd recommend taking courses or workshops in a variety of subjects to see what energizes you to study deeply. You could also ask to shadow professionals in various fields to see what a day at their job is like.
Enjoy exploring many paths!
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer, TRIO Program Administrator
1009
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
You might start out by exploring your personal interests and strengths through activities like taking career assessments, at a local job or employment center. This will help you determine where your greatest strengths are, whether it be in things like Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Math, Computer Science, STEM Careers and other career concentrations.
Next, research different potential career paths by conducting informational interviews with people like college professors and people at the career center, and investigating national and regional job market trends.
Finally, consider your long-term goals and values, and remember that it is okay to be undecided and be willing to change things around as you get more experience and learn more about yourself and different fields. As we grow older we should definitely be willing to seek more education and engage in activities that will enable us to progress in life.
I have a basic formula, when it comes to determining a college major or even a future occupation. Choose something that you love to do, not just a passion, but really love. It must be something that you love so much, that even if they did not pay you to do it, you would still do it anyway. American historian, David McCullough, said it even more clearly. He stated that he loved writing about history so much, that he would h
Next, research different potential career paths by conducting informational interviews with people like college professors and people at the career center, and investigating national and regional job market trends.
Finally, consider your long-term goals and values, and remember that it is okay to be undecided and be willing to change things around as you get more experience and learn more about yourself and different fields. As we grow older we should definitely be willing to seek more education and engage in activities that will enable us to progress in life.
I have a basic formula, when it comes to determining a college major or even a future occupation. Choose something that you love to do, not just a passion, but really love. It must be something that you love so much, that even if they did not pay you to do it, you would still do it anyway. American historian, David McCullough, said it even more clearly. He stated that he loved writing about history so much, that he would h
Michele Hendrix
Certified Medical Coder and Auditor
5
Answers
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Updated
Michele’s Answer
Well, having a math degree (I have one) shows you are logical and smart and these are good attributes in anyone. I have never regretted getting my math degree, although I wish I had gone on and also gone into a medical field as well. You can pair this with a computer science degree and specialize as you want with that. There are many opportunities for software engineers even now. Another thought would be the actuarial sciences which heavily relies on math.
I wish you luck.
I wish you luck.
Rebecca Tang
Banking
2397
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to know that you have interest in Maths and Physics.
Below are my suggestions :
1. There are many careers related to Maths &/or Physics, e.g. Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical & Electronic Engineering, Computer Engineering, Web Developer, Apps Developer, Accountant, Finance Manager, Financial Analyst, etc. You can find out more relevant careers online.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Attend the information sessions hosts by the department of relevant subjects of colleges and explore the entry criteria
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. There are many careers related to Maths &/or Physics, e.g. Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical & Electronic Engineering, Computer Engineering, Web Developer, Apps Developer, Accountant, Finance Manager, Financial Analyst, etc. You can find out more relevant careers online.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Attend the information sessions hosts by the department of relevant subjects of colleges and explore the entry criteria
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
William Vvuko
Retired engineer
150
Answers
Moyo, Northern Region
Updated
William’s Answer
Hi Lillian,
This is a great query. Firstly, what you are good or even exceptional at is worth pursuing as a career. Ideally, it's best for us to choose what we love and enjoy doing when choosing a career.
Mathematics and physics are core subjects for all engineering courses.
Astronomy combined with physics and mathematics points towards a career in aerospace engineering. It's a fairly specialized field of study.
Mechanical engineering perhaps gives you the widest range of opportunities: automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, mining, utilities, oil & gas, textiles, petrochemicals sectors as well as robotics etc.
Other engineering disciplines include civil, electrical, software, biomedical, structural, production engineering etc.
Whatever you choose, just remember that excellence in your studies will provide a solid foundation for your success as a professional.
I hope you find this useful.
This is a great query. Firstly, what you are good or even exceptional at is worth pursuing as a career. Ideally, it's best for us to choose what we love and enjoy doing when choosing a career.
Mathematics and physics are core subjects for all engineering courses.
Astronomy combined with physics and mathematics points towards a career in aerospace engineering. It's a fairly specialized field of study.
Mechanical engineering perhaps gives you the widest range of opportunities: automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, mining, utilities, oil & gas, textiles, petrochemicals sectors as well as robotics etc.
Other engineering disciplines include civil, electrical, software, biomedical, structural, production engineering etc.
Whatever you choose, just remember that excellence in your studies will provide a solid foundation for your success as a professional.
I hope you find this useful.