CHOOSING A CAREER

Hi Samson,

In general many individuals find math to be challenging. However, just because you did not do well in math in high school does not mean that's how you will do in college. There could be other factors involved such as, did you really apply yourself, did you spend the time you needed studying, perhaps you were not able to have good rapport with your instructors. You may surprise yourself and do much better in math in college. I would also suggest that since you have already learned that math can be a challenge for you, that you seek the assistance of a tutor early in your math course, do not wait until you feel frustrated. I would also suggest that you do not make your career choice based on one subject. I would suggest that you do some career exploration. The college that you attend should offer some career assessments . See if these are available at your school. I would also suggest that you do some job shadowing and see if you can spend a day with a local biologist and civil engineer in your area so you can see what their day to day activities involved, so you can decide what is a good fit for you, perhaps you can even find a summer internship in this area. At the very least, find a biologist and a civil engineer that you can interview about their jobs, find out what a typical day is like, and what they enjoy and dislike about their jobs. This way you will be able to make an informed decision.

Best of luck.

An electronics expert in biology can be a very good package. Especially in today's environment where science is very technologically driven, there is a high demand for being able to build your own sensors and software. Biology is not the most glamorous field, nor does it see large sums of money to conduct experiments, so being able to build your own equipment is a huge plus. Coming from a marine science background, I was informed of this publication: https://www.mtsociety.org/. Take a look around the site and maybe you can get some ideas on how to blend your two studies.

Also, there is a ton of potential for the use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS, aka "drones") to assist with biological and wildlife studies. http://www.audubon.org/magazine/july-august-2014/drones-take-wildlife-conservation-tool. I see all sorts of new uses every day, and universities across the world are starting to incorporate them into their curriculum.

You are not stuck your decision, nor are you alone in your situation. So go find your passion, latch onto it, and enjoy the ride.

Don't look at just a grade in a class, course, or subject. Look at your passions...and see if they can match up to your goals. Remember...a goal is a moving target. I started my "career" goals to become an aircraft mechanic. All of the shop courses, training, etc. didn't prepare for me to fail the physical for this type of career...I am color blind. Be flexible and try to involve yourself in not only the "how" to get from point A to B, but also the why.

Hello, Samson!

I agree with Michelle when she expresses that many students are not good with mathematics.

I suggest you pursue the career path you are most passionate about, that is, a career in Biology.

If mathematics is not your strongest subject, you can always seek tutoring on-campus to guide you with successfully passing your math courses. Ultimately, you must pursue your goals and dreams.

Best of luck with your educational and professional endeavors!

-Kortnee B.