Elaine

Unfortunately, our supremacy in the world in terms of our focus on the sciences, is eroding and eroding fast. It's hard to put a finger on exactly why. Since I do not wish to succumb to political comment, just refer to a recent study by the National Science Foundation. According to that body, the United States' share of worldwide scientific and engineering research publications, Nobel Prize awards, and some types of patents is falling. As the number of U.S. students have become less interested in science and engineering, top U.S. graduate schools have turned increasingly toward Europe and Asia for the best young scientists to fill laboratories. At the same time it is reported that post 911 immigration rules have made entry significantly harder. I do believe that in every problem lies a brand new opportunity. And I see such a situation arising in this country for the best B. Sc and B.S. Candidates. So before you quickly dismiss, the scientific programs in the best schools, think again. There is a wealth of new careers waiting out here for bright and alert candidates.

I know I labored under the delusion that the science and engineering routes were eminently stultified and boring. Then I began to take a hard look at some of the career possibilities in those fields and the incredibly stimulating course materials being offered today in those disciplines. Stick with me while I cover a couple. Take the findings of the National Science Foundation workshop "Bridging the Poles" in 2004. That forum talked about the need of the polar science community to fully engage more diverse participation, including Arctic peoples and communities, underrepresented minorities, and women, as well as broadening economic and geographic involvement. Here is what they found, in part "... Communication with Arctic indigenous people must extend beyond the simple transmittal of science results. Programs must advance the next generation of researchers from the Arctic who will investigate and communicate northern issues to global populations and decision makers." This theme of building capacity within communities, together with providing opportunities for personal contact and field experiences, making polar issues relevant at the community level, and developing mentoring and support systems". Yes, a wonderfully challenging and diverse need for all flavors of science undergrads and grads to work in that arena.

Here's another fascinating glimpse in to a world open to the new scientists. The field is computer science. Perhaps astrophysicists won't actually observe blackholes colliding, but they by simulating such an event using a computer they can learn from the simulation to understand black holes behavior more intelligently.

Well, you get the idea. These fields and thousands of others, perhaps with more fascination for you, are available. The possibilities are literally endless. They only need your imagination, creativity and skill to uncover them. You will find the most invigorating courses to gain your science degree and you will have a huge vista open to you to select a rewarding career.

Tim Moss is dedicated to helping young people discover their niche. You can find more about degrees in science at his site http://www.degreeinscience.com