<p>So many good posts. A STEM PhD is NOT a ticket to a job- I know too many people with them who have had problems finding employment. </p>
<p>Far too soon to think about grad school. You don’t know what you will end up majoring in even if you have already been accepted at your dream school. I know a man who has a U Chicago undergrad degree in math followed by an MIT PhD and a European fellowship who only has a temporary teaching job. </p>
<p>My young gifted son majored in math and finished a comp sci major for getting a job when he did not get into an elite math grad program (a brutal field to enter- so much worldwide competition). He had all of the math related theory but was weak in programming. He had one job and was recruited for another a couple of years later. We parents hope he will get at least a masters someday but so far (only 24) he’s being intellectually stimulated by his coworkers and the job. Who knows what will appeal to you just a few short years from now.</p>
<p>There are so many variables in your future at this point to lock yourself into a post college plan. Have a plan for a major (or two) at your college. Once you are there you will learn so much about directions you can take. You may even discover other academic loves and pursue one of them instead.</p>