Physical Science vs Biology: Which to Choose?

I'm currently torn between majoring in physical science or biology. I enjoy both, but I'm not sure which one to pursue. Can anyone share their experiences with either field, and what career options are available after graduating?

It's great that you have a passion for both physical science and biology, as they both open up numerous career opportunities. While I can't share personal experiences, I can give you an overview of what each field encompasses and their potential career paths.

Physical science broadly deals with the study of non-living systems, encompassing disciplines like chemistry, physics, astronomy, and earth sciences. Some career options in the physical sciences include becoming a chemist, physicist, materials scientist, geologist, meteorologist, or an environmental scientist. You can work in research, academia, or industry in sectors such as energy, materials, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, or environmental consulting, among others.

Biology, on the other hand, focuses on living organisms and their interactions with each other and their environments. This field spans various disciplines such as microbiology, genetics, botany, zoology, ecology, and molecular biology. With a biology degree, potential careers include research scientist, biologist, ecologist, genetic counselor, biochemist, or microbiologist. You can work in sectors like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, agriculture, or conservation as well as in academia and research institutions.

When deciding which major to choose, consider which subdisciplines within each field interest you the most, and what kinds of problems you'd like to solve in your career. You should also think about the type of work environment you prefer, and whether you'd like to conduct experiments, field studies, or academic research.

If you're still undecided, consider taking courses in both fields during your first year of college or, if possible, shadowing professionals in both fields to get an idea of their day-to-day work.

Ultimately, the decision between majoring in physical science or biology depends on your personal interests and professional goals. Spend some time reflecting on what excites you the most and where you see yourself working in the future. And remember, you can usually diversify your coursework through electives, internships, and research opportunities, allowing you to explore various aspects of both fields even after choosing a major.