Career path out of marine biology?

Questions about a career in Marine Biology?

• Hello everyone. I am 16 and will be a freshman in college this fall. I am majoring in English, but have had doubts for quite some time now. Since I was little, I have always had a huge interest in marine biology and always thought that someday, I would make it my career. However, I applied to college late and made a quick decision without giving it much thought. Now, I really like English, but I absolutely love marine biology. I want to be happy with my choices, and would like some advice. First of all, I realize that it is still very early, and I still have quite a bit of time to really make up my mind! However, the college that I will be attending does not have marine biology (which is a bummer), but it does have wildlife biology. Would this be a good way to start out? Also, I have a terrible time with math (sadly) and I was wondering if there is much of it involved with this major? If you could give me a basic idea of what kinds of classes I would need, I would greatly appreciate it. I would also like to know (even though this would be in the future) how one would go about getting a career in marine biology. I'd really appreciate some of my questions answered, as well as some advice. Thanks in advance!

• Answer:

  You can still major in english, but also do a major in marine biology - or something similar. Wildlife biology would be great, and don't worry if your college doesn't offer marine biology, you can still apply for research opportunities (many are paid) in the field of marine biology. Many of these are offered during the summer at certain locations. No, not too much math, but yeah you'll probably have to take first year calculus and some statistics at some point. Take chemistry and biology to start off with. Then, depending on what specific aspect of marine biology you're interested in, you might also want to take courses in microbiology, molecular biology, ecology, etc. to help you build a foundation of knowledge. Research experiences are great ways to introduce you to many people who can help you get a job in the future.