To be honest, I’m still not sure!! My best advice is to stick with what you like… but make sure you never stop exploring. All of the sciences are interrelated and any knowledge you gain from the university will be helpful.

As for me, I’m getting my undergrad in Geology with a minor in Physics. However, the internship I’m working for right now focuses on the optical properties of coral reefs. *cough* Not a geology project *cough cough* BUT!! I absolutely love the ocean, scuba diving, and light, and this job is now something I’m considering taking on full time. I realize a little more every day that my geology/physics background is just as applicable on a biological station as it is in a field more obviously relevant to my degree.

So if I were you, I would start out with the basics: you’ll need a year of chemistry and biology, along with your gen eds, no matter what school you’re attending or what science degree you end up wanting. While you’re taking chemistry and biology, think about the differences and which one you find more interesting. In a very generalized manner:

(1) Studying underwater rocks, sediments, fossils, or mapping the ocean should lead you to the chemistry and physics side of things, and you might consider marine geology or oceanography.

(2) Studying macro-life (fish, mammals, corals), micro-life (bacteria, algae, phytoplankton), or underwater plants should lead you in the marine biology direction.

(3) If you really like how all of the above is interrelated, you might consider going into ecosystems science and studying how life, death, and the environment function together as a whole.

Obviously there’s a lot to think about! I highly suggest learning as much as possible and taking any and all electives that seem interesting. Pick courses that could help you make a decision about your degree - don’t take a shit class just for an easy A.

Sorry if this was a bit long-winded, but I really hope it helped. Good luck! :)