Starting My Career as a Physicist - Advice for High School Students

[trektist]

I am just entering high school and have been dreaming of a scientist life forever. I have a huge interest in science and astronomy ( I am kind of a trekkie).
I am wondering what advice i can get on starting my carrer as a physicist.



P.S Just because i said i was a trekkie don't get the wrong message that I am not serious about science.

 

[Feldoh]

Here's some advice -- enjoy high school. Seriously, just do what you enjoy. Also try to be involved with things you enjoy. Also try new things, talk to new people.

I can almost guarantee you that your time will be more enjoyable if you try new things. There is a lot of freedom that comes with being in high school, take advantage of it.

Everything I've said might not seem too pertinent towards your question however when it comes down to it the truth is is that what you may be interested in today might not necessary align with your interests tomorrow.

However if you want to know more about physics the best thing you can do at your age is just get involved with physics projects. For example, if you think building a radio might be interesting, do it. No better way to find out if you like it by doing it.

Also read! There is a book, you've probably heard of it, called "The physics of star-trek" by Lawrence Krauss. I believe that should be right up your alley.

In any case good luck! Remember to do what you enjoy.

 

[lisab]

Keep your grades decent. Do well in your math classes, especially. Joining clubs, science-related or not, would be a good idea.

But Feldoh is right, enjoy your time there .

 

[bignum]

Math, work on them well. real science courses occur at junior or sophomore years

 

[rezeew]

First of all, congratulations on your passion for science and astronomy! It's great to see young minds interested in exploring the wonders of the universe. As a physicist myself, I can assure you that the journey towards a career in this field is both challenging and rewarding.

My first piece of advice would be to continue nurturing your interest in science and astronomy. Take advantage of all the resources available to you, such as books, documentaries, and online courses. You can also join a science club or attend science fairs to further fuel your curiosity.

In terms of academics, make sure to excel in your math and science courses. Physics, in particular, relies heavily on mathematical concepts, so it's crucial to have a strong foundation in this subject. Additionally, try to take advanced science courses and participate in research projects if possible. This will give you a taste of what it's like to be a scientist and help you develop important skills such as critical thinking and problem-solving.

Apart from academics, it's also essential to develop your communication and teamwork skills. As a physicist, you will often work in teams and need to effectively communicate complex ideas. So, don't hesitate to join extracurricular activities that allow you to interact with others and enhance your communication skills.

Lastly, don't be afraid to reach out to professionals in the field and ask for advice or mentorship. You can attend science conferences or reach out to professors at universities to learn more about their research and career paths. It's also a good idea to explore different fields of physics, such as astrophysics, particle physics, or quantum mechanics, to see which one interests you the most.

Remember, a career in physics requires dedication, hard work, and a love for learning. But with determination and passion, you can achieve your dream of becoming a physicist. So, keep exploring, learning, and never give up on your dreams. Best of luck!