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So you've chosen a career in science. Congratulations! I made that choice when I was seven years old. Anyway, like any career path, it's a challenge in some way or another. Your mind needs to work a certain way. Study habits have to cooperate with the curriculum just right. Extracurricular activities never hurt either.

The experience is different for everyone, but nonetheless there are a few pointers that may help the aspiring scientist achieve success or give it a decent try if nothing else. Obviously, the earlier you make this decision, the better, but it is never really too late. Of course, it is wise to keep in mind how far you intend to go with it and decide if putting in all the time and effort is worth it or conceivable. Then again, if this is something you really want to do, go for it. Don't let anything stop you.

Unfortunately, you do not have a lot of choice in how far to go in science. In many cases, if you do not have a doctorate, you are not truly considered a scientist. There are plenty of job opportunities even if you only have a bachelor's (which is my situation at the moment) but not nearly as many. Experience is another factor. Anyway, if you want to be a scientist, let's start from the beginning!

If you're still in high school or even if it'll be another decade until you're there, get your hands on any science-related literature you can. Pay attention in your science classes. Ask questions. Find out if your family or friends are or know anybody in a scientific discipline related to the one you want to get into. If possible, go to work with that person one day. Read any of that person's publications, or at least hang onto them for later if it's beyond your reading level. Keep an eye on the news for any new developments in your field of choice. Take any special field trips or internships that may increase your knowledge and feel for the subject. And, by all means, keep your grades up!

Apply for colleges that have good programs in your field of study or at least make sure you only apply to schools that even have what you want to go into. General sciences like biology, chemistry, or physics are available virtually everywhere, but certain more specialized subjects are either not available or barely touched on. But be sure to look into it as much as possible. How good is the program? How good are the faculty? Are there any research projects going on you could get into? Will you be able to develop a rapport with a faculty member or a few of them (very important!)? What special programs might there be that would enhance your learning experience, such as studying abroad or special internships? What are the degree requirements? Above all, what are the requirements for any graduate or professional schools you want to head into afterward?

From there on, the sky is the limit. Use your creativity. You can start a business related to your science of choice. You can teach at universities and do research. You can write books. You can teach in middle school and high school. There's also a lot more. Search around and use your head. I may touch on this subject again in a later Column, so keep an eye out here. Good luck!