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kaneez
Student
South Pasadena, California
11
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Updated
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How do I pursue and refine my interest in science?
I'm interested in science and would love to know what classes I should take in high school to identify my specific subject of interest
#science #education #school #career #career-counseling
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5 answers
Marjorie A. Goode
College & Career Planning Consultant
34
Answers
Rockville, Maryland
Updated
Marjorie A.’s Answer
Hi Kaneez,
Love your question and interest in science. As a retired high school counselor, my advice is to prioritize your quest by fulfilling your science graduation requirement. Even though there can be some district differences, it's usually consistent with requirements of lab science, biology, and physical sciences. Most colleges want to see you studied science classes that required a lab experience. Since there are various names for these, some you may find familiar are chemistry, physical science, physics, and matter/energy. Most biological sciences require a lab, also, and colleges may require it. Most districts require biology for graduation, but also offer anatomy/physiology, molecular biology and related life sciences. Most physical sciences, such as physics and chemistry, require some proficiency in mathematics and may also require a minimum math course for entry.
The district where I worked offer the following options, in addition to the ones previously mentioned: applied science, nutrition science, geoscience exploration, biotechnology, wildlife biology, biological anthropology/archaeology, environmental science, horticulture, astronomy, and forensics science.
There are also Advanced Placement options such as AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Environmental Science, and AP Physics. Most are double periods, with the exception of APES, due to the required curriculum labs. Honors classes in biology, chemistry, physics, and lower level (freshman) science courses also exist. Just be prepared for more rigor, compared to a regular placement class. Another option in some districts, for more challenge, is dual-enrollment. As a high school student, you take a college course at a local higher education institution, or at your school.
As you can see, there are a variety of science options for high school students. But as I pointed out, be sure to fulfill those courses required for graduation as your first choice. Read your course bulletin to understand the curriculum and when in doubt, your first point of contact should be the teacher of the course or the science department chairperson. It's acceptable to consult students who are taking, or have taken the course, but don't neglect or be intimidated to consult the teacher.
You will also find that a few science courses overlap with other disciplines/departments. I always encouraged students interested in psychology to take anatomy/physiology. It's a required course for psych majors in college. What not get your first exposure in high school? Besides, if you enjoy biology, a life science, anatomy/physiology takes you into more depth of the various body systems. Many students enjoy the collaboration of A/P and AP Biology. And forensics, which was made popular by the TV show, CSI, overlaps with social studies. In some colleges, forensics could be a social science or science major.
Hope this helps, Kaneez, and enjoy your science classes. I did, in both high school and college.
Love your question and interest in science. As a retired high school counselor, my advice is to prioritize your quest by fulfilling your science graduation requirement. Even though there can be some district differences, it's usually consistent with requirements of lab science, biology, and physical sciences. Most colleges want to see you studied science classes that required a lab experience. Since there are various names for these, some you may find familiar are chemistry, physical science, physics, and matter/energy. Most biological sciences require a lab, also, and colleges may require it. Most districts require biology for graduation, but also offer anatomy/physiology, molecular biology and related life sciences. Most physical sciences, such as physics and chemistry, require some proficiency in mathematics and may also require a minimum math course for entry.
The district where I worked offer the following options, in addition to the ones previously mentioned: applied science, nutrition science, geoscience exploration, biotechnology, wildlife biology, biological anthropology/archaeology, environmental science, horticulture, astronomy, and forensics science.
There are also Advanced Placement options such as AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Environmental Science, and AP Physics. Most are double periods, with the exception of APES, due to the required curriculum labs. Honors classes in biology, chemistry, physics, and lower level (freshman) science courses also exist. Just be prepared for more rigor, compared to a regular placement class. Another option in some districts, for more challenge, is dual-enrollment. As a high school student, you take a college course at a local higher education institution, or at your school.
As you can see, there are a variety of science options for high school students. But as I pointed out, be sure to fulfill those courses required for graduation as your first choice. Read your course bulletin to understand the curriculum and when in doubt, your first point of contact should be the teacher of the course or the science department chairperson. It's acceptable to consult students who are taking, or have taken the course, but don't neglect or be intimidated to consult the teacher.
You will also find that a few science courses overlap with other disciplines/departments. I always encouraged students interested in psychology to take anatomy/physiology. It's a required course for psych majors in college. What not get your first exposure in high school? Besides, if you enjoy biology, a life science, anatomy/physiology takes you into more depth of the various body systems. Many students enjoy the collaboration of A/P and AP Biology. And forensics, which was made popular by the TV show, CSI, overlaps with social studies. In some colleges, forensics could be a social science or science major.
Hope this helps, Kaneez, and enjoy your science classes. I did, in both high school and college.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3737
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Kaneez,
Embarking on the journey to explore and hone your passion for science can be a thrilling and fulfilling experience. Science is a broad field with countless subfields and disciplines, making it essential to delve into various areas to pinpoint your specific interest. High school offers a variety of classes that can lay a solid groundwork in scientific knowledge and help you uncover your enthusiasm within the field.
1. Biology: This is the study of life in all its forms, from tiny organisms to complex ecosystems. High school biology classes will expose you to key concepts like cell structure, genetics, evolution, and ecology. This subject can help you unravel the mysteries of life and might spark interests in areas like genetics, microbiology, or environmental science.
2. Chemistry: This is the study of all things matter - what it's made of, its properties, and how it interacts. High school chemistry courses delve into topics like atomic structure, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, and the periodic table. By exploring chemistry, you can deepen your understanding of the physical world and might find yourself drawn to areas like organic chemistry, biochemistry, or materials science.
3. Physics: This is the study of matter and energy and their interplay. High school physics classes typically explore topics like mechanics, electricity, magnetism, optics, and thermodynamics. Learning about physics can lay a strong foundation for various scientific disciplines such as astrophysics, particle physics, or engineering.
Beyond these fundamental subjects, there are other specialized science classes that might pique your interest based on your personal preferences:
- Earth Science/Geology: This field dives into the physical processes that mold our planet, including geology (the study of rocks and minerals), meteorology (the study of weather), oceanography (the study of oceans), and astronomy (the study of celestial bodies).
- Environmental Science: This field concentrates on understanding how human activities impact the environment and how to find sustainable solutions to environmental problems.
- Computer Science: This field merges scientific and technological principles to study computation and its applications. It's a highly interdisciplinary field that can open doors to careers in areas like artificial intelligence, data science, or software engineering.
- Psychology: While not traditionally seen as a natural science, psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behavior. It involves understanding human thought processes, emotions, personality, and social interactions.
To further refine your interest in science, consider getting involved in extracurricular activities or joining clubs related to your chosen subjects. Participating in science fairs, research projects, and internships can offer hands-on experience and allow you to dive deeper into specific areas of interest. Also, reading scientific literature, attending science conferences or lectures, and connecting with professionals in the field can expand your knowledge and offer valuable insights.
It's perfectly fine if you're not certain about your specific subject of interest right off the bat. Exploring different branches of science will help you find what truly fascinates you. As you advance through high school and beyond, you can customize your education and pursue higher-level courses or even specialized degree programs in college that align with your interests.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications/Domain Names:
1. National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) - www.nsta.org
2. American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) - www.aaas.org
3. Khan Academy - www.khanacademy.org
Embarking on the journey to explore and hone your passion for science can be a thrilling and fulfilling experience. Science is a broad field with countless subfields and disciplines, making it essential to delve into various areas to pinpoint your specific interest. High school offers a variety of classes that can lay a solid groundwork in scientific knowledge and help you uncover your enthusiasm within the field.
1. Biology: This is the study of life in all its forms, from tiny organisms to complex ecosystems. High school biology classes will expose you to key concepts like cell structure, genetics, evolution, and ecology. This subject can help you unravel the mysteries of life and might spark interests in areas like genetics, microbiology, or environmental science.
2. Chemistry: This is the study of all things matter - what it's made of, its properties, and how it interacts. High school chemistry courses delve into topics like atomic structure, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, and the periodic table. By exploring chemistry, you can deepen your understanding of the physical world and might find yourself drawn to areas like organic chemistry, biochemistry, or materials science.
3. Physics: This is the study of matter and energy and their interplay. High school physics classes typically explore topics like mechanics, electricity, magnetism, optics, and thermodynamics. Learning about physics can lay a strong foundation for various scientific disciplines such as astrophysics, particle physics, or engineering.
Beyond these fundamental subjects, there are other specialized science classes that might pique your interest based on your personal preferences:
- Earth Science/Geology: This field dives into the physical processes that mold our planet, including geology (the study of rocks and minerals), meteorology (the study of weather), oceanography (the study of oceans), and astronomy (the study of celestial bodies).
- Environmental Science: This field concentrates on understanding how human activities impact the environment and how to find sustainable solutions to environmental problems.
- Computer Science: This field merges scientific and technological principles to study computation and its applications. It's a highly interdisciplinary field that can open doors to careers in areas like artificial intelligence, data science, or software engineering.
- Psychology: While not traditionally seen as a natural science, psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behavior. It involves understanding human thought processes, emotions, personality, and social interactions.
To further refine your interest in science, consider getting involved in extracurricular activities or joining clubs related to your chosen subjects. Participating in science fairs, research projects, and internships can offer hands-on experience and allow you to dive deeper into specific areas of interest. Also, reading scientific literature, attending science conferences or lectures, and connecting with professionals in the field can expand your knowledge and offer valuable insights.
It's perfectly fine if you're not certain about your specific subject of interest right off the bat. Exploring different branches of science will help you find what truly fascinates you. As you advance through high school and beyond, you can customize your education and pursue higher-level courses or even specialized degree programs in college that align with your interests.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications/Domain Names:
1. National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) - www.nsta.org
2. American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) - www.aaas.org
3. Khan Academy - www.khanacademy.org
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3737
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Kaneez,
To cultivate and enhance your passion for science, here's a roadmap you can follow, especially during your high school years:
Enroll in Fundamental Science Subjects: Begin with the essentials. Ensure you enroll in mandatory science subjects like biology, chemistry, and physics. These subjects will equip you with a robust foundation in various scientific fields.
Opt for Advanced Placement (AP) or Honors Courses: If your high school provides AP or honors courses in science, think about enrolling in them. These courses are typically more rigorous and offer a deeper understanding of specific scientific fields.
Engage in Science Fairs and Competitions: Involvement in science fairs and competitions allows you to delve into your interests, acquire new skills, and earn recognition for your accomplishments. It's also a great way to distinguish yourself on college applications.
Become a Member of Science Clubs or Teams: Participating in science clubs or teams, like a robotics club or a science Olympiad team, offers you practical experience and the chance to work on projects that pique your interest.
Attend Summer Science Programs: Think about joining summer science programs at universities or research institutions. These programs offer you the chance to participate in real-world scientific research and learn from experts in the field.
Utilize Online Courses and Resources: Numerous online platforms offer affordable or free science courses. Sites like Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy can assist you in exploring different scientific fields and acquiring new skills.
Connect with Professionals in the Field: Make contact with professionals in the scientific field that fascinates you. Inquire about their career paths, how they embarked on their journey, and what they suggest for someone keen on pursuing a career in science.
Pinpoint Your Specific Area of Interest: As you delve into various scientific fields, strive to pinpoint the specific discipline that captivates you the most. This will help you concentrate your studies and gear up for a career in that field.
Immerse Yourself in Scientific Literature: Regularly reading scientific literature can keep you informed about the latest research and discoveries in your field of interest. It can also enhance your critical thinking skills and deepen your comprehension of scientific concepts.
Find a Mentor: A mentor can offer guidance, support, and advice as you cultivate your passion for science. They can also help you navigate the hurdles of high school, college, and beyond.
Remember, the secret to nurturing your passion for science lies in staying curious, asking questions, and maintaining a lifelong commitment to learning.
May God bless you!
James Constantine.
To cultivate and enhance your passion for science, here's a roadmap you can follow, especially during your high school years:
Enroll in Fundamental Science Subjects: Begin with the essentials. Ensure you enroll in mandatory science subjects like biology, chemistry, and physics. These subjects will equip you with a robust foundation in various scientific fields.
Opt for Advanced Placement (AP) or Honors Courses: If your high school provides AP or honors courses in science, think about enrolling in them. These courses are typically more rigorous and offer a deeper understanding of specific scientific fields.
Engage in Science Fairs and Competitions: Involvement in science fairs and competitions allows you to delve into your interests, acquire new skills, and earn recognition for your accomplishments. It's also a great way to distinguish yourself on college applications.
Become a Member of Science Clubs or Teams: Participating in science clubs or teams, like a robotics club or a science Olympiad team, offers you practical experience and the chance to work on projects that pique your interest.
Attend Summer Science Programs: Think about joining summer science programs at universities or research institutions. These programs offer you the chance to participate in real-world scientific research and learn from experts in the field.
Utilize Online Courses and Resources: Numerous online platforms offer affordable or free science courses. Sites like Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy can assist you in exploring different scientific fields and acquiring new skills.
Connect with Professionals in the Field: Make contact with professionals in the scientific field that fascinates you. Inquire about their career paths, how they embarked on their journey, and what they suggest for someone keen on pursuing a career in science.
Pinpoint Your Specific Area of Interest: As you delve into various scientific fields, strive to pinpoint the specific discipline that captivates you the most. This will help you concentrate your studies and gear up for a career in that field.
Immerse Yourself in Scientific Literature: Regularly reading scientific literature can keep you informed about the latest research and discoveries in your field of interest. It can also enhance your critical thinking skills and deepen your comprehension of scientific concepts.
Find a Mentor: A mentor can offer guidance, support, and advice as you cultivate your passion for science. They can also help you navigate the hurdles of high school, college, and beyond.
Remember, the secret to nurturing your passion for science lies in staying curious, asking questions, and maintaining a lifelong commitment to learning.
May God bless you!
James Constantine.
Kristin Kastner
Senior Analyst for Learning & Development
16
Answers
Updated
Kristin’s Answer
Hi Kaneez,
I remember in high school there was a science curriculum that was set to take each year, including biology and chemistry. I think your best option would be to see what your courses your school offers, and talk with your counselor about your career goals going into college. For instance, if you are really interested in biology, your counselor may be able guide you towards courses to take (not sure how many electives high schoolers get these days). As Vernon said, college may end up determining your major and other courses you take. High school will get you set with the foundation, and it will allow you to take into account what you're most interested in.
Keep in mind, you may be good in multiple branches/aspects of science. You may want to take electives for one branch, but focus your career on another branch (i.e. you want to be a doctor, so you'll major in biology, but you really enjoy environmental science, and you can take a few courses on that). There is always the option of doing a minor as well ;-)
Hope this helps!
Kristin
Vernon Turner
Independent Writing and Editing Professional
124
Answers
Kingsland, Texas
Updated
Vernon’s Answer
Good question, but the easy answer is: Take everything you can and weigh the differences to your preferences. Colleges and universities will take care of your "major". BTW, you will find that most of the sciences overlap in their substance, but all have the scientific method in common.