Noob here, needing to be guided to a career.

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around career guidance for a participant considering their major and future job prospects in STEM fields, particularly focusing on physics and engineering. The scope includes personal interests, potential majors, and job market considerations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • The original poster expresses a strong affinity for math and a desire to apply it in a scientific context, while being cautious about pursuing mechanical engineering due to a lack of interest in engines.
  • Some participants suggest pursuing a career as a scientist, indicating a straightforward path without delving into specific fields.
  • One participant recommends starting with introductory classes and gaining practical experience as a lab assistant to explore interests further, while also noting the availability of computer-based jobs in various fields.
  • The original poster seeks clarification on the job prospects associated with a physics BS compared to engineering fields.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the best career path, with some advocating for a focus on science while others suggest exploring engineering or computer-based roles. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the optimal major and career direction.

Contextual Notes

The original poster has not taken a physics class since high school and expresses uncertainty about hands-on work versus theoretical pursuits. There are also concerns about job market viability in different fields.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals contemplating a career in STEM, particularly those interested in the intersection of math and science, as well as those uncertain about the practical applications of their skills.

GonzalesD25
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Hey guys,

I've been lurking here for a while and I'm ready to ask you more experienced folks for help about what major I should go with.


I don't like talking about myself much, but I guess it's appropriate if anyone wants to contribute.
I love math, top of my calculus class now. Just got an associates degree (science, focusing on accounting). I think, however, science is more admirable and would prefer to use my math skills there.

These things said, I should also include my home experiments, I enjoy:
- Using a laser pointer for geometric type purposes, recently finding how light bounces off a cylindrical mirror.
- Calculating average speed in day to day life
- Calculating ft^2 of my floors at home
- Making a model of how a little "invention" would work, pulleys and string

*I haven't taken a physics class since high school, so this is all I have to go on also.

I should point out, I enjoyed doing all these things on paper most, and I'm not sure I'd actually enjoy doing them with my hands. Secondly, I don't find engines very interesting so I'm a bit cautious about going into mechanical engineering (the major all my friends are talking about.)

Lastly, which should go without saying, but I want a likely chance I'll get a job doing something I like, which is why I don't want to go for pure math or a "Sell! Sell! Sell!" business type atmosphere.

So what do you think is the best option for me?

And more specifically, is there a good chance of getting a job with a physics BS?

Is it better in your opinion to choose an engineering field? (and which one do you suggest?)

I know my information might be vague, but thank you all in advance for any advice you give.
 
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Just become a straight scientist. That's what I'm thinking of doing.
 
1) Nice thread title.

2) Just start off with some intro classes and try to work as an assistant in some lab or something to see if you like it. If you dont, I mean there are plenty of jobs where you can just sit in front of a computer.
 
WatermelonPig said:
1) Nice thread title.

2) Just start off with some intro classes and try to work as an assistant in some lab or something to see if you like it. If you dont, I mean there are plenty of jobs where you can just sit in front of a computer.

1) Thanks, I thought it was only fitting :-p

2) That sounds reasonable, since neither of us has a crystal ball. Now for a job sitting in front of a computer (supposing you mean calculating or perhaps making models), did you mean in an engineering field?
 

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