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Educational PathLike you, I’m a high schooler interested in astrobiology. So, I asked my friendly neighborhood astrobiologist, Bob Schmoe, about what he did in school to put him on the right track: “So Mr. Schmoe, what classes should I take in high school if I’m interested in astrobiology?”¯ “Well, in high school I knew that I would eventually pursue a career in some sort of science, so I focused on taking as many science and math courses as I could fit in my schedule. I took biology as a freshman, honors astronomy as a sophomore, AP biology and honors physics as a junior, and AP chemistry as a senior. Additionally, I took math classes all four years. But remember that if you want to become a scientist, like an astrobiologist, you should challenge yourself with honors or Advanced Placement, if you feel that you are able.”¯ “So, I only have to take science and math classes?!”¯ “Of course not! Humanities matter in every field! It’s important in my job to be able to write and speak well, so English classes were a must. You should take elective classes as well, you might discover a new interest. I took electives to learn about computers and a semester in earth sciences during my high school career.”¯ “Okay, so that’s high school. But what should I look for in a college? Should the school I chose have an astrobiology major?”¯ “There aren’t actually very many colleges that have 'astrobiology' as a major, since astrobiology is an extremely diverse topic. You should choose a college that is strong in sciences. When I was in college, at University of Washington, I eventually settled on a biochemistry major with a minor in astronomy and took plenty of math courses to go with it. Those degrees set me on the right course to become an astrobiologist.”¯ “What about after you got your undergraduate degree? Where did you go from there?”¯  Graduation Procession photograph by Clawed “You see, in astrobiology a PhD is “highly desired”¯, which basically means that you need one. Like my major, I got my PhD biochemistry, but other astrobiologists that I work with have PhD’s in astronomy, biology”¦ It really varies quite a lot.”¯ “Any last minute advice for a future astrobiologist?”¯ “I do have some, in fact. Remember that your interest in astrobiology and science isn’t restricted to school. A kid in high school like you has plenty of opportunities to discover if science is a good fit for you and then to show your interest in it. You can join in a science club at your school or in your community. A high schooler could even volunteer or get a summer job at a local planetarium or museum. But remember, have fun with your work too.”¯ “Thanks for the advice, Mr. Schmoe!”¯ “No problem. What else is your friendly, neighborhood astrobiologist here for?”¯ |
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