OK, so it it has been quite a long time since I updated this here site, and I have definitely slacked off. Initially it was computer problems that made it impossible to post, but I just got out of the habit after that and resolved to continue with regular posting upon returning from winter break for the Spring ‘07 semester. Well, in any case, I figure it’s about time I throw out an update or two, because certainly good things have happened to me in the last couple of weeks.
First off, I finished the fall semester without failing all of my classes! What a blessing! No, seriously, I really messed myself up as far as school goes last semester, partially due to lots of difficult coursework and overloading myself, and ended up looking at multiple failures. I am thankful to say that I only actually failed two classes, earning a D in a third one. My thoughts have often been on changing my major within the last month and a half, and these results certainly influenced this line of thinking.
As a junior in college, now five semesters through with lots of student loan debt waiting to be paid off, thinking about changing majors is a big deal. Why, it has near immediate financial consequences, as in going extra time, and makes one wonder, was all this time spent so far for naught? Nevertheless, I found myself looking at four primary options: aerospace engineering, meteorology, geosciences, and computer science. My current major is in physics, with a likely math major to go along with it. Hard stuff.
Geosciences was the first topic that I began considering seriously. I was studying noise-induced hearing loss and came upon a decibel chart ranging from virtually un-hearable sounds (like a mosquito flapping its wings ten miles away) to the loudest pressure waves in the world, which are found in hurricanes and volcanic eruptions. Volcanoes sounded particularly interesting. Think about the power involved! Amazing! The primary occupation that studies volcanoes is geologist or a related geology-related career. After mapping out the collection of geosciences courses I would have to take, I found that the major would take me at least an additional two years of courses, giving me a total of six years undergrad, which would almost definitely have to be followed by graduate school.
Meteorology is a topic that I have considered before, partially due to its relative ease and partially due to my interest in weather. Hurricanes and other powerful storms interest me. Could I help reduce the damage that hurricanes do and save lives? I could finish meteorology within the four-year plan, plus a course or two over the summer. Imagine being able to predict the weather, enjoy the sun, study lightning, or chase tornados! Meteorology would also be followed with graduate school.
Aerospace engineering leads to the design and construction of aircraft and spacecraft. I would love to learn how to fly. Building planes could be the next best thing. With a degree in aerospace, you can design the newest military technologies, send people into outer space, or create novel flying devices. What if you could develop a fully-maneuverable airplane that could fly within hurricanes to do reconnaissance for locating trapped people, taking wind readings, or even airlifting people to safety? This major would require a five-year plan, but a graduate degree would be optional.
Computer science is the study of computers and computer stuff. This includes, but is not limited to, computer programming, operating system development, artificial intelligence, robotics, and virtual reality. What’s not to love about that? Besides, I spend a ridiculous amount of time on the computer as it is, so why not get paid to do it? It would require at least an extra semester, though no graduate degree.
I was almost set on computer science when I rediscovered acoustics and audiology. I have a fascination with music and sound, and with noise-induced hearing loss. I am interesting in pressure waves and their effects on people, and their uses. The best way to pursue a career in acoustics or audiology from my current position is to finish my degree in physics and then go to graduate school. I also discovered that MIT has some free online courses, including one on differential equations, a topic I need to study and master but have had trouble with in the past. I can finish physics within four years.
And so, my plan is to stay the course and finish with physics, plus a math degree if it works out. I will certainly have to work hard and change my study habits, but I believe I can do it, and repare the damage I’ve done to my GPA and my confidence.