Choosing a program/major that fits my career goals?

[Cathmore]

I've recently realized that I am kind of drifting through university without a certain path, despite the fact that I have very definite career goals. More than anything else I am interested in regenerative science and human augementation, and my eventual ideal career would be working in the research and development in these two subjects. I feel as though no degree or major quite fits with this though, like I'm missing out on critical things other sciences could be teaching me if I focused on the biological aspects or the engineering aspects.

As of right now after a couple years of sciences I'm doing part of the first year Engineering program, and I really enjoy it, but I'm just not sure where it will lead me, and if it will get me anywhere near my goals.

Any program suggestions or recommendations? I'd like to stay within BC, but I would leave my province, but not my country to enter a different program.

 

[MarneMath]

I think a lot of students make this mistake that 'your education ends when you leave college.' Truth is that it begins. Yes, you may miss some biological aspect if you focus on engineering, but that doesn't mean that you won't be able to pick up what you need. I can almost promise you that picking up biology concepts will be easier than most engineering concepts.

No one leaves college knowing everything they will need to know to do well at a job. They leave with the ability to learn how to learn what they need to do. Just look at it like this. So with that said, I'll focus on some aspect of engineer, as for what subfield, I'm not an expert on that.

 

[TheAbsoluTurk]

Human augmentation as in exoskeletons and the like? I think mechatronics is what deals with this.

 

[BadAnima]

A lot of the cutting-edge research in regenerative medicine involves stem cells. From what I've seen, most people working with stem cells have PhDs in fields such as developmental biology and biochemistry. Many of these people also have MD degrees as well, but I don't think that's necessarily a prerequisite.

If you enjoy your engineering program, then I think you should stick with it. People with engineering degrees can and do go on to get doctorate degrees in biology, chemistry, etc. I would recommend chemical engineering because some of your required courses (organic chemistry, biochemistry, etc.) are prerequisites for certain upper-level biology electives that you may want to take in addition to your engineering courses. But to be sure, you should check with your school to find out the details.

 

[Matrix0]

First of all, it's great that you have a clear idea of your career goals and interests in regenerative science and human augmentation. It's important to have a direction in mind when choosing a program or major.

It's understandable that you may feel like no degree or major quite fits with your interests, as these are emerging fields that may not have specific programs dedicated to them yet. However, there are a few options you can consider.

One option is to pursue a degree in a related field, such as biomedical engineering or biotechnology, and then specialize in regenerative science and human augmentation through electives, research opportunities, and internships. This way, you can gain a strong foundation in both the biological and engineering aspects and apply them to your specific interests.

Another option is to pursue a degree in one of the traditional sciences, such as biology or engineering, and then pursue a graduate degree in regenerative science or human augmentation. This will allow you to gain a deeper understanding of these subjects and specialize in them at a higher level.

You can also consider looking into interdisciplinary programs that combine different fields, such as bioengineering or biomedical sciences, which may have a stronger focus on regenerative science and human augmentation.

Ultimately, it's important to choose a program that aligns with your interests and provides you with the skills and knowledge you need to achieve your career goals. Don't be afraid to reach out to professors or professionals in these fields for advice and guidance. Best of luck in your academic and career pursuits!