Career Guidance for 11th grader in Science

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SUMMARY

In the forum discussion, an 11th grader expresses a desire to pursue a career in science, particularly in physics and physical chemistry, while acknowledging the job insecurity associated with these fields. The user, Elemere, demonstrates a strong aptitude for math and a willingness to self-teach beyond the school curriculum. A recommendation is made to explore the thread titled "So you want to be a physicist" for further insights into the career path and its challenges. The emphasis is placed on finding satisfaction in work rather than the title associated with it.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts
  • Familiarity with physical chemistry principles
  • Mathematical skills relevant to scientific analysis
  • Knowledge of career pathways in scientific fields
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the career path of a physicist, including required education and skills
  • Explore physical chemistry resources and textbooks for deeper understanding
  • Investigate internships or volunteer opportunities in scientific research
  • Read the forum thread "So you want to be a physicist" for firsthand experiences
USEFUL FOR

High school students interested in pursuing a career in science, particularly those considering physics or physical chemistry, as well as educators advising students on career options in scientific fields.

Elemere
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Hi,
The first thing you probably noticed was how broad I was with the term science. Basically in a small sop story, ever since I was a kid I wanted to be a "scientist" at first it was fir mixing magical potions and becoming invisible but as time passed I think it's more the sheer thrill of the idea of being a pioneer someone to discover something no one else has. But sop story over next year I need to pick my main 5. With due modesty I have a natural aptitude for math and out of all the scientific fields I like the concept of physics despite the apparent job insecurity but have a love for physical chemistry and don't find any of these subjects unusually challenging. I know I am young to start thinking of these now but I am not afraid to self teach myself outside of the school curriculum and if my interest waers so be it but for now I'm just interested at narrowing down a career and learning what to studt for that general area.

Please note that though ignorant I admit to it and would appreciate it if you informed me politely of ant oversites.

Sincerely
Elemere
 
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Its probably better to think about what you want to do rather than what you want to be called. In any case, getting a career where you are called a "scientist" can be quite hard.

I would look at the thread in this forum titled "So you want to be a physicist" for insights into the process.

edit - here is a link, https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=240792 Its in the academic sub-forum, not this sub-forum.
 
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It's not so much the title as the meaning. As insecure a Job as it would be I think I would love a job where there is not a mandatory task that you've already been done a hundred times only to do it a hundred more and the biggest frontier in that kind of job environment seems to be the field of study we call science. I really don't care if I'm referred to as the garbage man I just want to enjoy the my job and feel a satisfaction in my work
 

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