Dr. ERNEST BEHRINGER
ADVICE FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
For high school students who are interested in earning a college degree in science, I suggest that you take science each year in high school (no matter what the science is) and as much math as you can. If you intend to major in the physical sciences, it is very useful (almost necessary) to take both chemistry and college prep physics while you are in high school. Those who are fortunate enough to attend a school that offers Advanced Placement (AP) versions of chemistry, physics, and calculus should consider taking the AP test to obtain college credit. Even if it isn't possible for you to take physics or calculus while in high school, this will not prevent you from majoring in physics in college.
Full disclosure: I did not take physics in high school -- although I did take calculus -- and yet I majored in physics in college (and took calculus again) and went on to earn my Ph.D. in experimental physics at an excellent graduate school. Lack of high school physics need not be a barrier to achieving an advanced education! (By telling you this, I do not endorse not taking physics in high school! In other words: take your physics!)
Really, the biggest barrier is figuring out what you're really interested in. If you can figure that out before you choose your major, it can be a great benefit for helping you graduate from college in a timely manner. Most importantly, however, is this: If you're doing what you like, you'll have the staying power to persist even when things can temporarily seem tough, and college won't just be something you do to get a piece of paper - it'll be something you do because you want to do it.
Students who like a smaller, family-style atmosphere are very well served by the Department of Physics and Astronomy at EMU. On the basis of recent history, classes for physics majors that are offered by the department will consist of no more than about 25 students and the upper level courses are even smaller. We have an active chapter of the national Society of Physics Students, a weekly event for students of physics called Lunch Time Physics, and opportunities for undergraduate research in a variety of fields of physics. I encourage you to seek more information at the department website.
