Preparing for a Career in Paleontology: Key High School Classes

Interested in embarking on a journey to become a paleontologist? While high school may seem like a distant milestone, the classes you choose can significantly impact your future academic and professional journey. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the high school courses that will best prepare you for a career in paleontology.

The Crucial STEM Classes

High school is the foundation of your education journey. To become a paleontologist, a solid grounding in the sciences is essential. According to numerous experts in the field, the following classes are particularly important:

Biology

Biology is the most critical science course for aspiring paleontologists. Through studying the biosphere and the principles of evolution, you gain essential knowledge about the living organisms that leave fossil records. Key topics include:

Cell biology Genetics Evolutionary theory Ecology

Biology provides a fundamental understanding of life, which is crucial when deciphering the fossil records of ancient life forms.

Geography and Earth Science

Earth Science or Geography classes will prepare you for the study of Earth’s history and the processes that create fossils. You’ll learn about:

The rock cycle and sedimentary processes Fossil formation and preservation Geological time scales and eras

Understanding these topics is essential for recognizing and interpreting the geological contexts of fossils.

Chemistry and Mathematics

Chemistry and mathematics are equally important:

Chemistry

Chemistry is particularly important for understanding fossil decay and preservation. Key topics include:

Chemical reactions in fossils Pyrite and its decay Preservation techniques

Knowledge of chemistry can help you understand the state of preservation and potential methods for preserving fossils.

Mathematics

Mathematics is vital for several reasons:

Statistical analysis of fossil data Geometric analysis of bones and teeth Understanding geological time scales

Strong proficiency in algebra and pre-calc will serve you well in college-level courses. Additionally, being a "quant" (quantitative) thinker can be a significant advantage in paleontology, especially when dealing with statistical data.

Nutshell: Key Takeaways

To be well-prepared for a career in paleontology, prioritize the following high school courses:

Biology Geography or Earth Science Chemistry Mathematics (Algebra, Pre-Calc, Statistics) Writing and Keyboarding (for better application and research skills)

While high school is the beginning of your journey, it’s crucial to take these foundational classes to set a strong base. Remember, paleontology is a highly specialized field that requires a deep understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of science.

Don’t worry too much about choosing specific high school courses, as long as you lay a solid foundation in these core STEM subjects. The ultimate goal is to ensure you’re ready to tackle the rigorous academic requirements of a paleontological career, including college, graduate programs, and beyond.

With a solid grounding in these subjects, you’ll be well on your way to realizing your dream of becoming a paleontologist, and you’re sure to enjoy the journey of scientific discovery!