Potential Careers

In college, I am thinking of majoring in environmental science or environmental studies. One job people with this major can get is, obviously, an environmental scientist. Being an environmental scientist requires at least a bachelor's degree (entry level). The average annual wage for this job is about $72,000 before taxes. Generally speaking, wages are the highest in Northeast United States, California, Washington, and Texas. Beginning environmental scientists often end up in field work, so they must be in good physical condition and able to handle harsh terrains. More seniors scientists spend most of their time in a lab or office. Environmental scientists must be focused and passionate about what they do. They must be able to work well in teams. They also must be persistent, as funding and support can be difficult to find.

Another potential job I could have is an agricultural scientist. Again, an entry level position requires only a bachelor's degree, but as high as a PhD would be beneficial for more advanced positions. The average annual wage before taxes is $60,000-$70,000. The highest wages are earned in the Northeast, but other random states like Missouri and Montana pay high wages as well. Agricultural scientists must have strong communication skills so they can let others know about their findings and communicate important information to other people they are working with. The personality strengths would be like those of an environmental scientists. They are similar jobs, just focused on different things.

One more job I could do is that of a biochemist. A bachelor's degree is required for this job. Before taxes, the average annual income is about $85,000. Pay is highest in California and the Northeastern United States. Biochemists must be good problem solvers. They must have a drive to be successful in their work. Again, they must be good communicators and be able to work in a group environment.