<p>I like social sciences, but surveys and studies have shown that these majors make lower money than math and science ones. I’ve found social studies easier for me, and so have been neglecting math and science. Now I’m a high school senior, going to college. I want to know how I can improve and catch up with my friends in college? What books should I buy? I’m thinking of pharmacy/ pre-med track right now.</p>
<p>If you are one or more semesters behind, you might want to consider summer school. If you are on track, but find the work difficult, you should take advantage of any tutoring services that your college offers.</p>
<p>If you don’t really like math or science, how will you feel 20 years from now working in a field involving those skills? </p>
<p>I know that CC wisdom is that math and science rule. I always did well in math and science but never derived any pleasure or enjoyment from them. I tested in the 99%ile so I had aptitude in them but my classes were sheer tortures of boredom. OTOH, I came alive in my english and social studies classes. I felt intellectually happy, mentally stimulated, challenged (at least in some classes) and generally much happier when in a poli sci lecture class than in calculus or physics.</p>
<p>Thirty five years after I incurred the wrath of my parents by refusing to study computer science or do pre-med studies, I am very happy as a lawyer. I use math occasionally but simple math like calculating interest or figuring out expenses. I have learned to read medical records and really enjoy figuring out medical issues but I know that I would never have enjoyed being a doctor.</p>
<p>You have to do what will make you want to get up and go to work every day. Believe me, there are very few perfect jobs but if the field that you’re in is at least interesting to you, you have a chance at a happy and successful work life. For instance, when I was in college, I had a job at a clothing factory. It was mind numbingly easy - match order numbers from one page to another. I quit because I just couldn’t stand looking at random numbers so much. I switched to tutoring in history and even though I made less, I was much happier. My current job is also a good example. I was downsized and make less money than I used to. My 401 (k) match here isn’t as good as my old job, but my new boss is so much better than my old one. I have to commute longer but the environment in the office is less toxic. </p>
<p>Life is a balance but I would highly recommend against going into a field you are not at all interested in just to make money. If on the other hand you do like math and science enough, go for it. All of the pharmacists I know are pretty happy with their jobs. The older ones say that the new computer programs that track drug interactions, etc. make their lives easier. I would recommend pharmacy school over med school unless you are really rich or have an absolute passion for doctoring - it’s cheaper, takes less time and you can have a home life.</p>
<p>Good luck.</p>
<p>What Joan said</p>
<p>First off, I understand how social sciences like Women’s studies , the Studies of Indigenous peoples, and AA studies really don’t hold a candle in the work place. But poly sci and economics are respected to name a couple. Next, if you never liked science or math, you will never cut it in pre-med…ever! That is all math and science and work, if you don’t like the work you are doing, you will never succeed. If possible, double major. It maybe more work, but get a degree in something practical, and in something you like…best of both worlds.</p>
<p>Beautifully said, Joan.
definemyself: If you like the social sciences a lot, you could work to be a university professor. They make ~100k and the schooling’s around the same as the med path. But if you’re bent on improving your math and science, first please explain what the highest level of math and science you have taken/currently taking before we can figure out books or methods for you.</p>