An additional thought:

Having “practiced the science of geology” for decades while teaching geology to college students, I found the most important thing for college students to know is how to “keep an open mind”.  Most of society thinks scientific inquire produces answers that are black or white, when in reality, good scientific inquiry produces more questions than answers.  After learning what is known, ask yourself what isn’t known?  Probing the unknown is the most important part of science.  Most call this research.  Find a professor with whom you can conduct research.  Let that person be your mentor.  We all stand on the shoulders of our mentors.

Jay Fleisher

Distinguished Teaching Professor Emeritus