What to Expect

Optics students study for high-tech careers in engineering and physics. They study the properties of light and how to harness it for human use.

Danielle Ann Manuszak did graduate work in optics at Stanford University. "When I was taking classes my first year, I spent much of the week either in classes or doing homework. Graduate school, however, can be very demanding, but worthwhile," she says.

She says she typically got to the lab around 9 a.m. to work on her experiment. That involved aligning optics components, such as mirrors and lenses, and taking data.

Jennifer Hunter took a graduate degree in physics, specializing in optics. "You need to be self-motivated," she says. She adds that although she only had two classes per week, she also taught a first-year lab and worked on her thesis.

"The important thing is to set goals and time limits and to strive to achieve them," she says.

Hunter says the independence of graduate work is a mixed blessing. "Although the independence is great, it can become a problem when you cannot find the answers to your questions. Realize that there is a lot that you don't know. Don't be afraid to ask questions, or to say, 'I don't know.'"

What's the best part of the program? "I love the diversity of life as a graduate student. My days differ, and I am always doing and learning new things," says Manuszak.

"I enjoy the freedom," says Hunter. "Also, I love to play with optical equipment and set-ups. I enjoy doing experiments and analyzing data. I am a true experimentalist."

How to Prepare

"Being prepared in math is most important," says Rhonda Morgan. She took a graduate degree in optics at the University of Arizona.

"All college science classes rely so heavily on math that often the math is taught in the science classes before the curriculum reaches it in the math classes. Definitely have a year of calculus in high school, two years of calculus if the school offers it, or you can take it at your local college."

But don't forget about your communication skills. "Do not underestimate English courses, for as a scientist, you will write many papers," says Manusza.

"Finally, foreign languages are useful. Conferences and collaborations occur everywhere in the world."