Jonathan Hayman: Types of Physicists
Students like Jonathan Hayman take classes in physics because of all of the opportunity that this type of degree provides. Unlike some other courses of study, physics isn't just about the science. It’s about mathematics.
Students like Jonathan Hayman take classes in physics because of all of the opportunity that this type of degree provides. Unlike some other courses of study,
physics isn't just about the science. It is about looking at an issue, analyzing it and being able to come up with a solution. Using a step by step method that involves logical thinking, just about anything can be solved. Because of the skill set learned, physicists have several different choices when it comes time to choose a career.
Teaching and Education
Some physics graduates want to take what they have learned and share it with others. In this case, they choose to become a teacher and provide a love of learning and the sciences with students. There are more and more openings for teachers in this field of study and so the jobs are plentiful. Also, some choose to come back to their places of learning, whether it be college or university, and teach other college students. (This would require a more advanced degree.) In some cases, it may be necessary to obtain teaching certification which may mean taking a few more classes within the subject matter of education. This is a career choice that might seem appealing to Jonathan Hayman.
Astrophysics and Astronomy
If Jonathan Hayman considered a career in astrophysics or astronomy, he would be looking into the stars and collecting data. Physicists that choose this type of profession take the data that they glean from the stars, planets and the air and come up with the relationships between them all. They may work to figure out how the universe is put together or focus on different ways to give man a chance to look more closely at the stars and planets with satellites or even space transportation.
Geophysics
Geophysics is the study of the earth. Someone like Jonathan Hayman would take data collected from the land, the water, or even the air and work to find out what it contains. There are several different career choices for someone interested in this line of work. From studying earthquakes, why they happen, and the effect that they have all the way to figuring out where the best place to create a road, a physicist is needed to help with the calculations.
If you, like Jonathan Hayman, are a student beginning the study of physics, you have a lot to think about. While you may change your mind, figure out what type of career you are interested in. In addition to your physics classes, you can take some in the field of study that you are looking to get into. This will make the transition easier and provide you with the basic knowledge that you will need to get started.
If you can't decide, continue through your coursework with an open mind. Look at each lecture, lab, or textbook as a way for you to uncover what you can do with your knowledge of physics. No matter what decision you make, you will be utilizing your logic and analytical thinking to help shape the world.