My Life as a Physicist

Lane Lewis
Background
In the past few years, since I began my first Physics class with Mr. Ralls, I have really taken a great interest in this field. I love how it is possible to actually see what is happening instead of just imagining it (as I am forced to do with atomic chemistry). Also, I feel as though I can truly apply in everyday life the things that I learn, using them to my advantage. Furthermore, I might as well admit it: physicists generally make a lot of money. However, this is definitely not the deciding factor in my desire to become a physicist; I truly do enjoy physics. The large average salary is just the icing on the cake.

What Physicists Do
If youre like I was before I did more research, you probably have no idea what a physicist actually does. As I did, you may think of physicists as scientists who just study the motion of physical objects through space and time. On the contrary, physicists do much more than just this. As stated by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, physicists explore the fundamental properties and laws that govern space, time, energy, and matter. This, however, is a pretty general statement of the duties of a physicist. Personally, I enjoy applied physics as opposed to theoretical physics. According to the Bureau, physicists in applied fields design and perform experiments with sophisticated equipment such as particle accelerators, electron microscopes, and lasers, [and] through observation and analysis, they try to discover and formulate laws that explain the forces of nature, such as gravity, electromagnetism, and nuclear interactions, [and] others apply their knowledge of physics to practical areas, such as the development of advanced materials and medical equipment. The Bureau also states that workers in applied physics use the knowledge gained from basic research to develop new devices, processes, and other practical applications and that their work may lead to advances in areas such as energy, electronics, communications, navigation, and medical technology. These examples supply a more specific understanding of what a physicist might actually do.

Required Education
A doctoral or professional degree is generally required for an entry-level job in this field, according to the Bureau, which also points out that the job outlook is pretty good, standing with a prediction of a 10% increase from 2012-2022. As also stated by the Bureau, the annual median pay for 2012 was $106,360. I truly believe that this is an appropriate career choice for me. I really do enjoy physics, and I also feel that it would be a good job with a good salary so that I could easily support me and my future family. Although it will undoubtedly be hard work, it will definitely be worth it when my schooling is over and I obtain a job in this field. I am very anxious to see what the future holds in store!

Works Cited Bureau of Labor Statistics. Physicists and Astronomers. Occupational Outlook Handbook. United States Department of Labor. 8 January, 2014. Web. 31 March 2014.