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Can you give me wise advice on what I should attend college for?
I'm a 19 year old male from Cleveland, OH, USA. Doubt that will matter, but I'm trying to give insight in to my life for the best answer possible. My highest grade completed is 8th grade. I was in 9th grade three times. I failed the first two times because I never attended school and finally dropped out the third year because I did not want to complete high school at the age of 20. I have my GED (General Education Development). I want to get enrolled in college asap.
So, my biggest passion in life is, simply put, The Universe. I would love to become an Astronomer or an Astrophysicist. The biggest problem with this is that I don't meet any prerequisites for taking a course in Physics which is where I would like to start. Like I said, I dropped out in 9th grade; so I never got to take any advanced classes in Math or Science. Throughout my entire school years I excelled in Math and Science. Getting older and having been out of school for so long I feel I cannot do math at all anymore. I have to think for seconds at a time when asked simple addition problems, etc. I feel it would take a long time to get back where I was when I was younger. I've smoked a lot of marijuana, partly a reason I never attended school, but I also believe it has destroyed my memory, which is why I think it will take me a long time to get back to where I was. I want to do something very hands on and pertaining to the Universe. I want to make amazing discoveries and breakthroughs. I want my name in history as a great scientist. I will not leave this world behind just to be forgotten shortly after.
What course should I start with to lead me on the path of becoming an Astronomer or an Astrophysicist? Will I even be able to accomplish this despite my lack of schooling? Since I really want to do something hands on, is Astronomy/Astrophysics the right area to be looking? I've read that "employment in the field is quite varied, with most astronomers working in the academic community," on Astronomy. If I do go through with either of those options, what courses should I start off with? Remember, I don't meet any prerequisites for taking Physics. What basic courses should I take to be able to take Physics, if Physics is my best bet.
The other thing I'm looking at is anything in the computer field. IT, Graphic Design, Web Development, Programming, etc. The reason this is my second choice is becausing computers are my second passion. I'm extremely quick with them and learn new things with them even quicker. I have an interview tomorrow to do graphic design for a guy (we'll call him Bob). Supposedly none of his employees started off at less than $30/hr, he offers housing with no rent and each employee receives their own laptop. Sounds entirely too good to be true. I've been doing graphic design (or at least toying with it) since I was about 12 when I received my first pirated version of Adobe Photoshop 7.0. Bob needs someone to do coupon magazines for him. I've never made anything that's actually been printed or anything. I've made basic websites for me, friends and I did one real job for someone on GetAFreelancer.com which was a web template. Everyone I know says I'm talented with graphic design, but I don't think so. I don't think I have the creativeness that's necessary for any kind of art. So, what Bob is explaining to me sounds simple enough and it sounds like I would be working with a team of graphic designers to do the whole magazine layout and everything. I'm worried because I really don't know what this is like and I heard before I talked to him that he offered training which really had me interested in the job, but now it seems as if he's expecting me to already be well rounded with this exact graphic work. This job interview is scaring me further away from going to college to become a graphic designer. I would really rather not end up doing Programming. I know it pays well which had me interested at a young age, but now it seems entirely too tedious for nothing except money. So IT is my next choice, but I'm terrible with hardware and don't see myself doing that.
I want my name in history and I want a better understanding of where I came from, how and why, but a career in the Science field looks grim because I simply don't think I'm smart enough or have enough education. That leaves me with something in the computer field which is good money and a very demanding line of work which is easy to get in to college for. Please do not give me a 50 word response on this. I'm looking for some serious, detailed and wise help here. Thanks in advance.
So far, thank you skinny. You're the only person who paid any kind of attention to my actual questions. I have thought about going to see an advisor, but like you said, get many opinions, which is why I'm here. After all of your personal opinions, I will seek a professional one. Please, keep answering people! Do not say anything about the medical field again please. It's out of the question. I will be a scientist or an IT guy. End of story. Just help me figure out which, why and how please.
Thank you Electic Witch. Nice to know somewhere near me shares my ambitions. I feel alone in this world. Now, about Tri-C. I plan on going to Cleveland State University for whatever I end up taking because my mom works there and I can go for damn near free and get grants for the rest. As long as I can get grants or and nice payment plan to go to Tri-C, I will definitely look in to that. I know about the weed thing, I haven't smoked in over a month and I feel great. I feel more clear headed and actually feel as if some of my memory is returning.
Jana M, that is the most motivational answer I've read so far. Thank you very much, this is mostly what I was looking for. Stories from other personal experiences. I live in poverty as well which gives me all the initiative I need. That thing about asking yourself how much you care should help a lot. Best answer so far, detailed on courses and in what order and a person experience. You have no idea how much that helped.
Electic, I just noticed your edit.
"Or would you like to discover new stars and search for planets?"
That's right along the lines of what I would like to do. Although actually going out and exploring planets/moons would be very nice. Just not sure if I could get over all the fears involved with space travel.
Thanks luckyfive, very informative and helpful. I've actually typed things up and read them hours later, never waited days. I will try that. I also make pro and con lists for other things, but didn't do it with this decision.
Hey man.
I'm from Cleveland too. Well, living currently in Parma (couple minutes south of the city).
It's really great that you want to become an Astronomer or an Astrophysicist. It is the same field that I'm going for.
I think you should start off at a community college such as Tri-c. Their classes are cheap and you can start at the math level that is right for you.
Take math and science classes.
As you advance, start taking harder classes such as trig, calculus, physics, chemistry.
Once you are all set, you can attend an university.
But first thing if first. You have to stop smoking pot. It ruins your memory and makes you kinda "slow" in comprehending.
–What course should I start with to lead me on the path of becoming an Astronomer or an Astrophysicist?
*Any math, physics, astronomy, chemistry class.
–Will I even be able to accomplish this despite my lack of schooling?
*Your past doesn't matter. You got your GED so you can attend a community college and have a new start. You are still capable of learning so if you give it your best, you will do fine.
–Since I really want to do something hands on, is Astronomy/Astrophysics the right area to be looking?
*What do you mean, hands on? I am going into Mechanical Engineering where I want to study and build more better space vehicles. Maybe even go to the moon or Mars one day.
Is that what you would like to do?
Or would you like to discover new stars and search for planets?
–What basic courses should I take to be able to take Physics, if Physics is my best bet.
*You need algebra and some times trig for physics and good reading skills (which you do have).
You should be able to manipulate equations……. something like this:
v1 - v2 / t = x solve for t
It is simple once you know how to do it.
–The other thing I'm looking at is anything in the computer field. IT, Graphic Design, Web Development, Programming, etc.
*You do NOT want to do Graphic Design. This field has no jobs. But if that guy is offering a job for $30/hour and you want to do it……. you should! I would.
–Science field looks grim because I simply don't think I'm smart enough or have enough education.
*Education is like clockworks. 2+2 will always equal 4. Once you learn all these little tricks it will be simple. Pick up books and you can learn or even ask us people on Y!A.
If all else fails, you can always join the military to do computer work. You will get money and you can retire fast. Also you can earn respect.
You can also attend college while in service which maybe can lead you somewhere else.
I don't know man, you go lots of potential in you. You just got to try and finding what's right for you.
Pick up a math or science book and see if it's right for you.
OH remember one thing when picking classes.
Technology classes are more hands on and less of the math stuff.
Good luck man!
14 Responses to “Can you give me wise advice on what I should attend college for?”
Leave a Reply
June 5th, 2009 at 1:27 pm
health care is rising in today's society so i would say go that direction..or business. these areas will always need the need for people.
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June 5th, 2009 at 2:00 pm
buissness
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June 5th, 2009 at 2:14 pm
just flip burgers
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June 5th, 2009 at 2:34 pm
Go for a technical school before a 4 year college. The Health Care Industry, Diesel Mechanics, Electrician, IT,… There are many many jobs that you can get from a 2 to 4 year private technical college that will also help you get a job right out of the gate.
ABC 20/20 - College is a Rip Off
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V122ICNS8_0
Season 3 Episode 6: "College"
http://www.sho.com/site/ptbs/previous_episodes.do?episodeid=s3/college
College degrees will lead us to future happiness, enlightenment, fun, preparation for life, a fulfilling job, as well as national prosperity. At least, that's what we've been told and sold. That's brochure bullshit! Been to a college lately? Rather than beacons of enlightenment, colleges have become bloated 400 billion dollar a year corporations, islands isolated from the real world, treacherous minefields where free speech and individual liberty often get trampled. And not only that, but going to college offers no sure path to an enriching life…or even a blue-collar job!
Sho.com Video Preview: http://www.sho.com/site/video/brightcove/series/title.do?bcpid1305032885&bclid=1316298330&bctid=1316298329
Streaming: http://www.megavideo.com/?v=RGG97QRX
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June 5th, 2009 at 3:03 pm
if u go to college, companys will really want you to work for them because u are an intelligent man. also college gets u a jumpstart to a carreer. what ever college you choose, dont think about the name of the college, think about the one u like the most. u can be just as sucsessful as people who went to harvard if u get a good edjacation at any other college!!! Good luck my friend!
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June 5th, 2009 at 3:51 pm
wow, guy! nobody's going to read that novel just to answer your question. and i don't have any idea what you should major in, as i am stuck as well, but i wish you good luck and i apologize for not taking the time to actually read about your problem.
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June 5th, 2009 at 4:18 pm
go for it. you can do anything you put your mind to dont give up or quit because you dropped out f school if you have to then go back to high school in a Sense and do home-school or do it on the computer. some colleges also do offer high school classes you can take. explore your opinions and go for it.
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June 5th, 2009 at 4:29 pm
my advice is to go speak with several college student councelors even if you arent planning to go to their college thy can give you the best advice and head you in the right direction. its best to get many opinions and not just one. do what you will enjoy doing the most thats what ive heard.might as well get paid for doing something you enjoy anyway right .good luck!
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June 5th, 2009 at 5:16 pm
Hey man.
I'm from Cleveland too. Well, living currently in Parma (couple minutes south of the city).
It's really great that you want to become an Astronomer or an Astrophysicist. It is the same field that I'm going for.
I think you should start off at a community college such as Tri-c. Their classes are cheap and you can start at the math level that is right for you.
Take math and science classes.
As you advance, start taking harder classes such as trig, calculus, physics, chemistry.
Once you are all set, you can attend an university.
But first thing if first. You have to stop smoking pot. It ruins your memory and makes you kinda "slow" in comprehending.
–What course should I start with to lead me on the path of becoming an Astronomer or an Astrophysicist?
*Any math, physics, astronomy, chemistry class.
–Will I even be able to accomplish this despite my lack of schooling?
*Your past doesn't matter. You got your GED so you can attend a community college and have a new start. You are still capable of learning so if you give it your best, you will do fine.
–Since I really want to do something hands on, is Astronomy/Astrophysics the right area to be looking?
*What do you mean, hands on? I am going into Mechanical Engineering where I want to study and build more better space vehicles. Maybe even go to the moon or Mars one day.
Is that what you would like to do?
Or would you like to discover new stars and search for planets?
–What basic courses should I take to be able to take Physics, if Physics is my best bet.
*You need algebra and some times trig for physics and good reading skills (which you do have).
You should be able to manipulate equations……. something like this:
v1 - v2 / t = x solve for t
It is simple once you know how to do it.
–The other thing I'm looking at is anything in the computer field. IT, Graphic Design, Web Development, Programming, etc.
*You do NOT want to do Graphic Design. This field has no jobs. But if that guy is offering a job for $30/hour and you want to do it……. you should! I would.
–Science field looks grim because I simply don't think I'm smart enough or have enough education.
*Education is like clockworks. 2+2 will always equal 4. Once you learn all these little tricks it will be simple. Pick up books and you can learn or even ask us people on Y!A.
If all else fails, you can always join the military to do computer work. You will get money and you can retire fast. Also you can earn respect.
You can also attend college while in service which maybe can lead you somewhere else.
I don't know man, you go lots of potential in you. You just got to try and finding what's right for you.
Pick up a math or science book and see if it's right for you.
OH remember one thing when picking classes.
Technology classes are more hands on and less of the math stuff.
Good luck man!
References :
Oh wow! You should definitely attend Cleveland State.
June 5th, 2009 at 5:45 pm
You have a lot of admirable ambitions. Start at a community college and take basic mathematics then advance to algebra and trigonometry which are prerequisites for physics. Talk to a counselor and plan your educational goals and stick to them. You have the ability to write well, this will help you a lot in your class assignments. The ability to communicate is a very desirable skill in science. So start your education and work gradually one step at a time and I'm sure that you will succeed in all your endeavors. Good luck.
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June 5th, 2009 at 6:10 pm
I know exactly how you feel. I basically stopped attending school at a young age and never really learned any math, but I am now taking calculus courses in school. I never thought it would be possible.
What you need to do is just start from the basics. Go to a community college and get your AA, it's a lot cheaper than going to a 4 year college and once you transfer to a major university it will be as if you attended it the entire time. You will also be required to take a lot of courses you normally wouldn't if you were just majoring in one field, such as Humanities (which is really fun) and social science classes. Maybe that can help you figure out your niche.
At a community college you will be required to take pre allgebra, then beginning and then intermediate and then you can finally take a college level course, unless you can test out of them but if you're not familiar with math I don't recommend it. It's a pain in the butt but it really is beneficial. They also have free tutoring available and different places you can go to have math help.
It is very hard to pass any college classes if you treat it like high school so please remember that this a temporary bump in the path of a more stable life.
I'm personally studying Computer Engineering with a focus is Cisco networking. I started out at beginning algebra and I still count on my fingers some times but after living in poverty for 5 years I am more motivated than I ever possibly could be.
Graphic design can pay well but it is hard to find a decent job. I would recommend getting a major in the field you really want and eventually minoring in other fields. You could also always go back and get a major in Astrophysics or Astronomy. Stay in school as long as possible, especially in this economy.
My goal is to work in the systems department at NASA. I've always loved universal exploration but the only thing I'm good at is computers. I've also changed my major about 5 times until I found what was right for me.
I really hope this was helpful. Just ask yourself every day how much you actually care. This really helps me when I think of skipping class
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June 5th, 2009 at 6:57 pm
It sounds like a good place to start is at a community college. It will get you back into the academic scene and with a GED who has taken a little time off, you'll have better chances of admissions. Once you have spent a year or two earning good grades and getting back into the rhythm of academia you can transfer to a university.
You can meet with career and academic counselors at a community college and/or university (maybe start at a community college with a specific university in mind so you can plan courses that transfer and be in touch with a university counselor to take courses that will satisfy requirements for your field(s) of study). Discuss different majors and what career options are readily available for each. Figure out how much time and money it will cost to do one (maybe physics, graphic design, computer engineering, etc.) or more than one. Beginning at a community college will not only save money, but they tend to provide better career counseling and a better level of academics for returning students.
And as far as which one - why not both? Studying computers would put you ahead in the science realm, even if studying science won't necessarily "help" you if you go into graphic design and computer. I combined my passions and got two degrees even though one is far less practical than the other (I have a degree in French - ha). Independently they are both practical and can take you into lucrative and fulfilling professions and together they will open up more doors and you can choose the career path you actually want. The catch to studying both is that you will likely be in school at least one extra year. If you are motivated, hard working, and willing to invest the money and time into I say do both!
If you're flexible with where you work (be willing to work at a university and build up a reputation in research and whatnot) and what you do right out of school (nobody starts in their dream jobs), then I think both would be awesome. You shouldn't have to compromise on things that you love! If you really need to choose between them free write for 10-15 minutes anything at all that you think about the options and read what you wrote 2 or 3 days later. You'll be surprised at how helpful this can be in helping you work out your own decisions. Or, create a list of pros and cons (including career options, cost, length of time in school, difficult of courses involved with each major, etc.) for each major and compare them to see which one(s) will really help you succeed at what you want to do and what your strengths are well suited for.
Good luck and I hope you're able to work this out!
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June 5th, 2009 at 7:06 pm
you know you can always go to acting school
new york film academy in los angeles or in new york
oh its 12,500 for a semester for one year is 25,000
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June 5th, 2009 at 7:45 pm
this may sound a bit creepy or a bit weird but i'm proud of you for sticking by and thought about doing something for yourself it may not been instantly but we all have challenges and falls in our lifes but that makes us think and move on to better possibilities we may find in life look at me i have adhd and some other issues i face including depression but in jr high and grade school it use to be a struggle to even pay attention on reading spelling writing or basically do anything for myself but with help of my grandmother she help me improve on things in life and as well i help myself until 6th grade it was a turning point kids picked on me abused me in everyway they could i tried to attempt sucide like 23 times i've been to hospitals just recently last friday i got dicharge from the hospital after attempting sucide and i ran away as well but ever since than i feel fresher purei feel good about myself than ever before why am i telling you this i felt like you before i use to be some badass chick people use to think but the point is i've been in special ed behavior classes i gave up on myself lots and lots of times i thought ''can i ever be successful'' since i failed all my classes see what i'm trying get here is i don't want you to kill yourself because you thought you couln't do it the reason i said thought is you can do you can become astronomer you may not get it right away but it does take time but everbody in life as some level of ability to succed the more you try in life the more the level grows the reason i said sucide is you may not think about it right now but in time you might find it difficult to succeed in life so you might consider sucide as option but don't thats not an option in life the reason we are on this earth i believe is to succeed and be something to be remember when its our time to leave this earth and parish but still are remember through people lives for the things we've have done. so you should maybe consider community college first because they offer resources classes to help students who needed it the most as well once you have completed the coarse you can mainstream into regular classes after that you can get a scholarship to go a university that is offered to you or your choice as well or just simply you can get a degree in astronomy you can do anything in life and the mistakes that interfare can disppear in a flash that is if you try in life and and never put your heart down ever ….
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