Physics is really interesting, especially when we are introduced to such physics personalities such as Albert Einstein, Steven Hawking and Neil DeGrasse Tyson. Albert Einsten, the developer of quantum physics. Steven Hawking is an English theoreical physist, cosmotologist and Director of Research in Theoretical Cosmotology at the University of Cambridge, England. Neil DeGrasse Tyson is an American astrophysist and cosmologist, author, science communicator and the Director of the Hayden Planetarium in New York City.
What we learnfrom physics is that it helps us to understand how the world around us works. This understanding is literally related to everything, i.e. can openers, light bulbs, cell phones, paints, cameras, cars, buildings, black holes, earth quakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, volcanos expelling their guts, to humans (muscles, lungs, brains, DNA) and on and on and on.
Physics helps those who study it to organize the universe. It begins with the fundamentals and helps physicists to see the connection between everything. Physics is the basis for modern technology used in science, engineering, medicine, economics, finance, managemen, law and public policy. It helps us build quantitative and analytic thinking skills, including big picture thinking which is needed for analyzing data and solving problems. Manufacturing is even inundated with physics based technology.
Our world would be a much different place without physics. Students who study physics are able to do better on tests like the SAT, MCAT, GRE etc. Without physics, students would be cut off from a whole array of high paying jobs. You can’t become an engineer or doctor without physics. Video games probably wouldn’t be in existance with out physics. Animated movies would go back to the drawing board without physics. Public Policy on global warming would be far less compelling without all the scientific research that is physics oriented.
Conversely, majoring in physics provides an excellent preparation for graduate study in not only physics but also in engineering, information/computer science, life and molecular biology, genetics and neurobiology,earth, atmospheric and ocean sciences, public policy, journalism, finance and economics. The options are wide open.
College and corporate recruiters recognize the value of training in physics. The job market for those with skills in physics is diverse and strong. Physics encourages thinking that is measured, analytic and big picture in nature which tends to inject persons with these qualities into management and policy positions. The two (2) of the top science related positions in the U.S. government are currently held by physicists: the Energy Secretary is Dr. Ernest Moniz and the Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology is Dr. John P. Holdren.
Being introduced to physics at an early age is very important because it is challenging but it is really needed to hone your thinking skills. It makes sense but it never occurred to me that physics is truly needed to understand music, art and literature. Physics in the arts provides a wonderful insight into how science and art are deeply connected. We can see how scientific principles are used in art and how art is hidden in science. The arts have been inspired by the laws of nature, especially during the Renaissance. Leonardo da Vinci epitomized this combination of art and investigative science, both striving to describe nature.
If you want to make preparation for the new jobs in being created in the near future, check out some of the training availabilities. The job possibilities for someone with additional training and skills are limitless. Please call Higher ED staff at 360-716-4888 or email us at highered@tulaliptribes-nsn.gov to find out more information.
Submitted by Jeanne Steffener, Tulalip Tribes Higher ED