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Meet Kyndal Hartline! Kyndal interned with the Patriots Point Education Department during summer 2015. We asked her what is was like being a science major at Clemson University. Here's what she had to say: |
Pros and Cons of Being a Science Major by Kyndal Hartline
Within the world of science, there are so many routes to take in regards to areas of study. The opportunities that are generated from becoming a science major are endless. One can become a medical doctor, marine biologist, environmental scientist, computer scientist, astronomer, etc.… By choosing a career /major devoted to science, you also sign up for a lifelong journey of continuously learning. That is what generated my interest in environmental science; the fact that even when I graduate and have settled into a career, I will still learn new concepts every day. I will also be able to apply those concepts to help solve problems within our environments and hopefully make a difference. Science can be a very rewarding field of study, but you have to be willing to put in the work!
There are many paths one can take when choosing a science major. Now let’s talk about what it takes to make it in this competitive field of study!
The 5 most important traits of a science major:
1. Dedicated
2. Hard Working
3. Open Minded
4. Diligent
5. Intellectual
1. Dedicated
2. Hard Working
3. Open Minded
4. Diligent
5. Intellectual
Pros and Cons: Let’s end on a positive note, so I will start with the Cons of being a science major.
Cons:
1. Long labs – Usually to coincide with lecture, most science classes will have at least a 2 hour laboratory class to “boost” the lessons discussed in lecture
2. Competitive – Both in school and in the career field, science is very competitive. You have to study hard to make good grades, and typically will have to work your way up in a career setting
3. Lots of Reading – Other than doing field work (which can be fun) most science majors require long hours of studying scholarly articles and databases.
Pros:
1. Rewarding – As I mentioned before, science can be a very rewarding field of study. Hard work pays off!
2. It’s Fun - When one has chosen a concentration of interest, typically you can revolve your class schedule around topics that you find interesting!
3. Science is Broad – Science can open up many doors, and lead one in many different directions in life. It’s up to you to take the direction that suits your fancy!
Why I chose Environmental Science:
When I graduated high school, I had my mind set on becoming a nurse. However, thanks to many episodes of Grey’s Anatomy, I came to the realization that I did not have the stomach to pursue that career path. I then shifted my career goals to marine biology within my first year of college. I became discouraged by the competitiveness of the schooling, as well as the slim job outlook. Although I still have great interest in marine science, I decided to pursue a degree in environmental science. It is a broader subject and therefore I have many areas in which I can specialize in. Also, I’ve always had a deep love for nature and the outdoors. I figured that if I could pursue a career I love while also helping to better the environment it will be a “win win” situation.
My Favorite Class:
So far in my academic career, my favorite class to take has been biology. I love to learn about life cycles of plants and animals, and how they all come together to keep the earth functioning as a whole. I especially like to learn about marine biology and ocean science. There are so many mysteries about the ocean and the species that inhabit it. It’s always fascinating to learn about new discoveries scientists find.
Advice for Future Scientists:
I encourage anyone who has an interest in science to give it a try! Work hard, and work passionately. Be devoted to your subjects and always be open minded to new ideas and topics. Let your mind wander, and then research! It’s truly amazing how far science has come.
Cons:
1. Long labs – Usually to coincide with lecture, most science classes will have at least a 2 hour laboratory class to “boost” the lessons discussed in lecture
2. Competitive – Both in school and in the career field, science is very competitive. You have to study hard to make good grades, and typically will have to work your way up in a career setting
3. Lots of Reading – Other than doing field work (which can be fun) most science majors require long hours of studying scholarly articles and databases.
Pros:
1. Rewarding – As I mentioned before, science can be a very rewarding field of study. Hard work pays off!
2. It’s Fun - When one has chosen a concentration of interest, typically you can revolve your class schedule around topics that you find interesting!
3. Science is Broad – Science can open up many doors, and lead one in many different directions in life. It’s up to you to take the direction that suits your fancy!
Why I chose Environmental Science:
When I graduated high school, I had my mind set on becoming a nurse. However, thanks to many episodes of Grey’s Anatomy, I came to the realization that I did not have the stomach to pursue that career path. I then shifted my career goals to marine biology within my first year of college. I became discouraged by the competitiveness of the schooling, as well as the slim job outlook. Although I still have great interest in marine science, I decided to pursue a degree in environmental science. It is a broader subject and therefore I have many areas in which I can specialize in. Also, I’ve always had a deep love for nature and the outdoors. I figured that if I could pursue a career I love while also helping to better the environment it will be a “win win” situation.
My Favorite Class:
So far in my academic career, my favorite class to take has been biology. I love to learn about life cycles of plants and animals, and how they all come together to keep the earth functioning as a whole. I especially like to learn about marine biology and ocean science. There are so many mysteries about the ocean and the species that inhabit it. It’s always fascinating to learn about new discoveries scientists find.
Advice for Future Scientists:
I encourage anyone who has an interest in science to give it a try! Work hard, and work passionately. Be devoted to your subjects and always be open minded to new ideas and topics. Let your mind wander, and then research! It’s truly amazing how far science has come.