I choosing the right Path. (Astro-Physics)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around a newcomer to the Physics Forums, seeking advice on subject selection for A-Levels in relation to a future career in astrophysics. The scope includes educational pathways, subject relevance, and personal interests in physics and astronomy.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Alexis expresses a strong interest in astrophysics and seeks guidance on appropriate A-Level subjects to support this career path.
  • Some participants suggest focusing on Physics, Pure Mathematics, Computing, and possibly Statistics, arguing that these subjects are more relevant for an astrophysics degree.
  • Others caution against taking five A-Levels, recommending a maximum of four to avoid distraction and suggesting Further Maths as a beneficial addition if possible.
  • One participant mentions the value of English Literature but questions its relevance compared to the science subjects for an astrophysics application.
  • Alexis mentions a background in languages and expresses uncertainty about the necessity of including them in his A-Level choices.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of focusing on science and mathematics subjects for a career in astrophysics, but there is disagreement on the number of A-Levels to pursue and the relevance of language and literature studies.

Contextual Notes

There is an underlying assumption that achieving high grades in relevant subjects is crucial for university applications, but specific requirements may vary by institution.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering a career in astrophysics or related fields, particularly those in the process of selecting A-Level subjects.

Alex1995
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Hi, I am new to physicsforum so you probably don't know me. My name is Alexis, i am a guy, i just turned 16.
I love physics, especially Astro-physics.
I am still doing my IGCSE's, and I want to make sure I choose the right subjects for my A-Levels.
I chose: Physics, Pure Mathematics, English Literature, Computing, french. i might not take french and take statistics. i am not sure.

Now, I love astronomy and am always reading this forum, always getting updated with MIT opencourseware, always reading NASA website and check Astronomy-Picture of the day.

I really want to have all this in my career in the future, but i am not sure what kind of job i am aiming for. Theoretical Physisist sounds good but I really don't know that much about it.

The things I like: Astronomy, Physics, Computing, Mathematics.
I know as languages greek, german, english, french.

What could I do when I am older?
and to achieve this, what courses should I take, what Uni should I go to?

(ofc my favourite Uni's are MIT, Caltech).

I am very new to this, so pardon my language, I hope to achieve a Ph.D and get a nice job that I can enjoy throughout my life, what should I aim for.
Your advice will greatly Help me, so Thank You in advance!

My email is: athina.drakopoulos@googlemail.com
Skype: alexistheboss15

if you want to contact me. I will check this post again tomorrow. Thank You very much.
And Hello PhysicsForum!
 
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Why so many A levels?! Focus on Physics, Pure mathematics, Computing and statistics. Your ability in languages and literature will count for little in applying to take an astrophysics degree. But get A's in the science subjects, all useful in astrophysics, and you should do well.
 
It's not worth doing 5 A-Levels, you will simply get distracted and the vast majority of people find 4 A-Levels enough, 5 would be too many. I'd recommend taking Further Maths if you can, it is a big advantage to do so, especially if you do the Further Mechanics and Differential Equations modules.
 
oh.
well lived in france 8years so its easy to do that.
also Art i am doing this year my A-S, next year my A-2 so that will be done i will only have 3-4 Alevels in 2years to do.
I need Physics, Pure Mathematics... Computing will help, and Eng Lit is always good right?
 

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