What Can I Do After College with My Diverse Interests?

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The discussion centers on a junior physics and math major contemplating their future and the relevance of their diverse interests in physics, neuroscience, and nonprofit work. The individual is concerned about their lack of focus and the implications for graduate school, particularly given their disinterest in research despite it being a significant component of advanced studies. Participants in the discussion suggest that it's normal to feel uncertain and that exploring different types of internships, particularly in areas like neuroscience, could provide clarity and help align interests with career goals. They emphasize the importance of gaining varied experiences beyond research, as this could lead to a more fulfilling path post-college.
Sarah1994
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I know, the most dramatic and trite question.

I am currently a junior physics and math major. Physics is my primary major, and I am considering an honors degree. I have to write a senior thesis, so I have been research-shopping: I dabbled in particle physics (computational data analysis of the size of the proton) and, on the other side of the spectrum, I did an physics REU in materials science/biophysics (the rheology of nanoparticle and lipid thin films). I am about to start research for an applied science lab that works with AFM and spider silk.

I also love writing, neuroscience, and nonprofit work.

I feel like my interests are too unfocused and I am worried about what to do after college (and what I will be able to do). I don't think research interests me, and since grad school had always been my plan, that concerns me. I know a stranger can't read my mind and tell me what to do with my life, but if anyone has been in nearly the same situation that I'm in, could you tell me how you got to where you are now?
 
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Sarah1994 said:
I don't think research interests me, and since grad school had always been my plan, that concerns me.

Research is a big part of graduate school.

Anyways, it's okay to you change your mind. I posted threads like yours too. Also, I changed my mind several times during undergraduate. To me, it sounds like you have very good research experience. Why don't you try to seek a different type of internship over the summer? One pertaining to neuroscience or something you think you will enjoy?

I spent my entire undergraduate only doing research, I do wish I took more initiative to get internships from some type of industry.
 
Hello, I graduated from undergrad a few years ago with a Major in Physics and minor in Electrical Engineering. I tried to get experience working on and testing circuits through my professor who studied Neutrinos, however covid caused the opportunity to go away and I graduated with no experience or internships. I have attempted to break into the engineering industry with no success. Right now I am considering going for a Masters in Electrical Engineering and I need advice on if this would be...
I don't know if anyone on here works for any of the well known defense companies of your country, whichever country you are from?? Also, if you choose to work in one, do you think the engineering education provide from your school would adequately prepare you for the job. What do I mean by that? Well if you work at say Lockheed Martin and you work in the latest iteration of a missile or if you work at Pratt & Whitney, they assign you to work in the team helping out with building the jet...

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