Start in school if you want to be a scientist

Considering that the sciences have many areas, there are lots of career paths for budding scientists, based on what you like most. To give you an example, if you like zoology, you could become a wildlife scientist who studies animal behaviour, while a chemistry whiz may choose to be a chemist whose research might cure disease. Whether you aspire to work in a laboratory one day, wish to conduct field study, or intend to teach the sciences, becoming a scientist can offer rewarding, exciting work experiences. It is possible to specify a path for your career by focusing on your education and taking a look at the world like a scientist.

Beginning in high school, and continuing in your undergraduate years in college, you should take courses that teach you the analytical and critical thinking skills you have to have to be a scientist. This is a must to have a leg up later in life.

You will have to be well-skilled in math. Researchers in the physical sciences utilize a whole lot of mathematics, especially algebra, calculus and analytical geometry, while those in the biological sciences use math less often. All scientists need a working knowledge of data also.
Consider visiting science camp throughout high school. You will do more intensive jobs than you do in your regular science courses in school.

Once you have gotten your feet wet and you are knowledgeable about the directions this career could take you, declare a major in a more particular branch of science. Planetary? Medical? Psychological? Geneticist? Agricultural?

If you would like or if your school’s lack of choices necessitates it, then you can wait to announce something more specific later (in grad school). A general subject like chemistry is fine, also.

You will also have to write well as a scientist, both to get grants for your research and to publish your results in scientific journals. Courses in English in high school and technical writing can allow you to polish your skills.