If you have always enjoyed understanding the minerals that comprise substances, then you may enjoy being a chemist. The notion that a chemist is someone who works alone, stirring up concoctions is nowhere near the reality of this career choice. The truth is that you will have the opportunity to work with other highly-educated individuals in a team. These people all have a passion for understanding the composition of substances found in the earth. Maybe you have always wondered, “How do I become a chemist?” If you have thought about this career option, then you should consider pursuing a bachelor’s degree in chemistry.
What’s it like to be a chemist?
When you become a chemist, you have the opportunity to explore substances to your heart’s content. You are able to discover the substances that make up products that are used by consumers on a daily basis. You can find out which substances are found in medicines or cosmetics. You may even be hired by a major cosmetic company to help develop a new lipstick or powder. Chemists actually can help businesses cut down on costs for the production of products. Chemists also can help businesses ensure that their products meet certain legal requirements. A chemist may make sure that a makeup product does not contain chemicals that could be harmful on the skin of consumers. You will probably work full-time in an office or laboratory. If you work for a corporation, then you will probably have access to some of the best lab equipment. One of your other major responsibilities will be to submit lab reports of the testing that you do on products.
Education Requirements
If you want to become a chemist, you will need to pursue and complete certain educational requirements. You should have a natural interest in physics or engineering. You should also like math. You should pursue a four-year college degree in a science area if you wish you become a chemist. You will also be highly marketable if you are able to obtain strong writing skills during your time in college. If you are able to pursue a double major in chemistry and writing, then you will be competitive with other individuals who are applying for a position as a chemist with a corporation. Businesses will want to hire you for your strong communication skills and ability to draft thorough and well-written proposals.
Salary & How to Get a Job
The average salary of a chemist is about $71,000 a year. If you want to become a chemist, then you should try to gain an entry-level position for a corporation. You should also try to complete an internship program with a medical or cosmetic company. By completing one of these internship programs, you will be in a better position to be hired by one of these corporations. These internship programs also give you the opportunity to establish yourself and build connections in the industry. You may also want to apply for positions as a chemist with a government agency. If you work for a branch of the government like the FBI, then you may actually have to work with dangerous substances. As you can see, being a chemist can have exciting elements to it.
When you become a chemist, you can enjoy the ability to work on an independent basis or on part of a team. You can also appreciate having the chance to contribute to the ultimate product that is created by a business. You play an important role in helping a business to create products that adhere to legal regulations.
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