Alaric
What should I major in? I am stuck between three options.
Summary: I like quantum mechanics and how it relates to chemistry and of course, physics, but pure math also captivates me.
I’m having trouble deciding between three majors. The majors are math, physics, and chemistry. For some background, I am a rising freshman in high school. I have experience with all three subject areas. I’ve been interested in chemistry since third grade. I started memorizing the order of the elements and eventually finished. I tore through books and bored my family. I am currently self-studying physical chemistry, and I’m really enjoying. I’m currently focusing on quantum chemistry. It was the branch of chemistry that really stuck out to me. Other areas aren’t as interesting to me. I’m also currently self-studying higher level math just so I can understand physical chemistry better. Now, for physics, I’m really only interested in quantum mechanics, acoustics, low and ultra-low temperature, and maybe the chemical part. Classical mechanics doesn’t really interest me. I’ve attended a physics camp and toured the labs. I fell in love with the low temperature lab. I will come back to the camp as a mentor in future. In fifth grade, I loved particle accelerators. We had an independent project, and that’s what I made my video on. Now for math, I love math. It’s my favorite subject. As previously mentioned, I’m thoroughly enjoying self-studying math. I enjoying teaching others what I learn as well. I want to learn all of the math in world. I get visibly excited when a math topic I like is discussed. Pure math interests me the most. I’m not opposed to double majoring or having minors. I’m planning on going to grad school. For careers, I’d like to become a researcher or work in academia, but I really can’t decide what field. Is there a major that combines the three fields?
4 answers
D.J. Benion, MBA
D.J.’s Answer
I just had a chat with a friend of mine who's really into this stuff, and she shared some cool ideas with me. I thought you might find them interesting.
Seeing your passion for quantum mechanics, physical chemistry, and pure math, here are a few paths you might want to think about:
1. Mixed majors:
- Mathematical Physics
- Physical Chemistry
- Chemical Physics
2. Double up or major with minors:
- Physics major with sidekicks in Math and Chemistry
- Math and Chemistry double act
- Chemistry major (with a spotlight on Physical Chemistry) and a Physics sidekick
3. Keep math at the heart of it all: It's the secret sauce in both physics and theoretical chemistry.
4. High school is a great time to explore:
- Keep learning on your own
- Show off your skills in science fairs and competitions
- Check out summer programs in your favorite subjects
5. Once you hit college:
- Kick off with a wide-ranging Physical Sciences major to get a taste of everything
- Hunt for unique programs like Caltech's "Mathematics and Physics"
6. Looking ahead to your career:
- Your passions match up nicely with research and teaching
- Grad school could give you even more specialized mix-and-match options
And remember:
- It's totally cool if you're not ready to make a decision yet
- Your passions might change and grow
- Keep your focus on getting really solid in all three subjects
You might also want to chat with some pros in these fields to get their take on things.
Hope this gives you some food for thought!
Thank you so much!
Alaric
Joseph Neilson
Joseph’s Answer
Whichever field you choose, you'll encounter aspects of the other fields. Maths is the language of the sciences, so if you choose a science, you'll still be using the tools of maths; even things that probably seem like quite advanced math to you at the moment (calculus, differential equations, vector calc, complex numbers) see lots of use in science, particularly physics. If you choose pure math, it does start to become increasingly more abstract, but you still often contextualise some of that math by applying it to the real world, and that often ends up being a physics application. If you do chemistry, the "why" of what's going on is applied physics.
I've got to represent my own field and say that if you like the interplay of physics and chemistry with quantum chem, nuclear and atomic physics could be another option to combine all three areas - there's quantum effects at play in nuclear structure and the interaction of radiation and matter; and there's plenty of overlap in radiochemistry too. There's also huge interplay of physics and chemistry when you look at nuclear engineering, particularly the process engineering in power plants. Maybe not exactly your thing, but another idea to think about.
Aisha Taylor
Aisha’s Answer
It sounds like you have a strong passion for math, chemistry, and physics, particularly in the areas where these fields overlap, such as quantum mechanics and physical chemistry. Given your interests and background, here are a few suggestions that might help you decide on a major and explore the possibility of combining your passions:
1. **Chemical Physics or Physical Chemistry**: These interdisciplinary fields combine elements of both chemistry and physics, focusing on the physical principles underlying chemical systems and processes. This might be a perfect fit given your interest in quantum mechanics and low-temperature physics as they relate to chemistry.
2. **Mathematical Physics**: This major focuses on using mathematical methods to solve problems in physics. Since you love math and are particularly interested in the theoretical aspects of physics, this could be an ideal choice. It allows you to dive deep into both subjects simultaneously.
3. **Quantum Chemistry**: While typically a specialization within a chemistry major, quantum chemistry focuses on the application of quantum mechanics to chemical problems. Given your current self-study in physical chemistry and quantum chemistry, this could be a good fit.
4. **Double Major or Major/Minor Combination**: If you find it hard to choose just one field, consider a double major or a major/minor combination. For example, you could major in Physics and minor in Math or Chemistry, or vice versa. Many universities offer flexible programs that allow students to tailor their studies to their interests.
5. **Interdisciplinary Studies**: Some universities offer interdisciplinary programs where you can design your own major. This could allow you to create a custom curriculum that incorporates math, physics, and chemistry.
6. **Engineering Physics**: This major combines physics with engineering principles and often includes a lot of applied mathematics. It’s another interdisciplinary option that might align well with your interests.
To further refine your decision, you might want to:
- **Look at Course Catalogs**: Review the course offerings for each major at the universities you are interested in. See which courses excite you the most.
- **Talk to Professionals and Professors**: Seek advice from professionals in the fields you are considering, as well as professors. They can provide insights into what each major entails and the career paths they open up.
- **Explore Research Opportunities**: Try to get involved in research projects or internships related to each field. This hands-on experience can provide a clearer picture of what working in each area would be like.
Ultimately, your decision should align with what excites you the most and where you see yourself making the greatest impact. Considering your enthusiasm and dedication, you’re likely to thrive in any of these fields.
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Alaric
