Hey everyone I will be a freshman at the University of Notre Dame next year. I originally thought that I was surefire a biochemistry major when applying for schools but I have since learned I am actually not a huge fan of biology. I am looking for some insights as to how difficult each of these majors will be as well as what I can do/what I would have to do in order to enter the working world. What do prospective jobs look like for each? Would I need a masters for any of these majors? Additionally if I were to change biochemistry to chemistry would that change employment options thay much (I have heard chemistry unemployment is very high)?
Anyways thanks guys!
Most people end up working in jobs that have little direct relationship to their major. Instead of focusing on a major, it might be useful to think about the kind of work that you would like to do and in what setting. Obviously, if you want to be a research chemist, you should study some form of chemistry, but if you’re not really sure what you want to do (which is completely normal for a college freshman), then keep your mind and options open. Check out the websites for the departments that interest you – some will have detailed information about the jobs their graduates take. Reach out to faculty or staff in those departments, and make sure to visit their tables during orientation. Don’t start worrying about master’s degrees before your first freshman course! Just take your time to think about what interests you, and do your best to take advantage of the tremendous academic and career resources provided by the university.
@emmamarie I guess I was more wondering what studying those different thing would be like…
You can’t know that until YOU study them yourself. Other people’s opinions on chemistry, math, or economics can’t really help you. Even if you took AP classes in these disciplines, you only got a hint of them in high school. So keep an open mind, take an introductory course in each, and see what happens. Can’t speak for the other departments, but some of the best faculty members teach the intro economics courses.
Notre Dame doesn’t require you to declare a major in your Freshman year. I think you have the best possible resource for all your questions at Notre Dame - your Freshman advisor and the incredible career center at ND. They can tell you what ND students do with their respective degrees. I think you will find that good advising is a huge asset, and ND has great advising.
As far as how difficult, well, I believe biochem at ND is one of the most difficult majors.
I agree with emmamarie: both my roommate and I came in as chemical engineers, but after my second chemistry class I knew I would hate the major. Because I loved the physics classes I was in, I switched to mechanical engineering and have loved every moment of it. Take a few classes, and see which you enjoy.
My son loved chemistry but hated biology. He graduated from ND with a chemistry major and medieval studies minor - but he wanted to go on, so he’s pursuing a PhD in inorganic chemistry. Many of his fellow majors went into medical or dental school. Some went into careers in chemistry. Some went into consulting. Major in what you love - you will find a job after university. What you think you love now may change or be augmented with other interests. You will never find your passion unless you explore the opportunities. Your advisor can help you know your options. One of the anthropology professors says “There is nothing you can’t do with that major!” In other words, enjoy the journey!