I am worried about my choices. I have many second thoughts and I explored them by every detail (average salary, average satisfaction, availability, benefits). I don't want to declare undecided because I am afraid that I will loose some potential scholarship money for a certain department.
I narrowed it down to 2.
Math - I have a overall B in there and the highest I have took is pre-cal/ trig. I know a lot of people who cant pass because its too hard. I taught myself Cal AB and I enjoyed math
Computer Science - I took programming classes outside of school. I have enjoyed fooling around with languages making mini-applications on my spare time. I consider it as a hobby, I often spend time with. I heard that CS majors are unemployed and have low job satisfaction
Careers I am interested in. (in order of likeness)
1. Secondary Teacher (math) - I am afraid that a CS degree will block my chances. Low salary but good benefits
2. Actuary
3. Programmer
Math - Carer
Computer Science - Hobby
2007-06-06 19:06:30 · 4 answers · asked by sameperson247 2 in Business & Finance ➔ Careers & Employment ➔ Other - Careers & Employment
I second a previous answer saying that you should go with the one that you enjoy the most.
The reason is because if you enjoy what you do, you'll perform better than others who do it for the money. Which means in the long run you'll get both fulfilment and money.
My suggestion for you is to try finding a side jobs in those areas.
For example, for teaching, do some tutoring. Or you can always find programming gigs (craigslist is filled with this). Not sure what you could find for actuary, but I'm sure you can find something else that involves something similar to it.
Do it for free if need to, just to get a feel the real world experience since you'll be doing it for the rest of your life.
You might come to conclusion that none of those is for you or something else that employs different aspect of each.
good luck.
2007-06-06 19:46:12 · answer #1 · answered by dnystwn 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The only advice I can give you is to do something that you'll enjoy, or at least not dread doing. Most people will tell you to go for the money fields, or go for the easy degrees, but what's the point? If you're not content, if you're not satisfied, then I can almost guarantee that you'll be back in school down the line.
You said you're interested in math. That would be crucial to both your interest in teaching and actuarial sciences. However, on its own, there's not much demand for it unless you go on to further your education.
As for computers, there are people that love it and hate it. Take it from someone that's been in the IT field for over 6 years now, it depends greatly on where you work, or the field your in. As a programmer, yes, it's possible to get pigeonholed if you're not in the right game (which, the right game varies from region to region). However, fields such as web- or database-programming are always going to be in demand.
2007-06-07 02:26:08 · answer #2 · answered by teknomancer73 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sounds to me like you are wanting an education degree. Take the math and you will always be in demand. But, as you said, low pay, good benefits.
I think a computer science degree is better. Job opportunities seem now to vary with the economy. I believe you will have job satisfaction.
2007-06-07 02:31:48 · answer #3 · answered by Richard F 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Obtain a PhD in Math and a BS in Computer Science, with focus on both programming and graphics applications.
You know, some field background in computer engineering wouldn't hurt you either. Who knows? You might outwit Bill and Microsoft by being the sole inventor of a product.
Wouldn't that be sweet?
2007-06-07 02:18:04 · answer #4 · answered by Mr. Wizard 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋