Physics vs Comp sci

[Proactive]

Since grade 10( now finished first year uni), I have wanted to learn about physics/astronomy. I have been very curious about the universe, and finding more about it; however this is probably the hardest subject for me. I have always ranked at the very bottom of my physics classes( failed my current physics course ), even though I spent lots of time attempting to do the homework for this semester I still ended up failing the course( was unable to spread time out evenly during the week since I had homework due for other subjects). I enjoy learning about physics but I think i'm slow to grasp the concepts. I enjoy learning physics sometimes, but because I'm slow to grasp material, I will usually not have enough time to grasp it, therefore have a frustrating time doing homework.

Comp sci for me is a much easier subject and I have a much better foundation from high school, it doesn't feel hopeless when I'm doing homework. However, I am not curious about computers. I am able to get into the zone much easier with comp sci. Throughout the year, it has never felt right to major in this because I have always dreamt about doing physics.(currently pursuing a minor)

If I choose physics, I will go to a less well known college,  since I was taking the second part of a specialized physics course that is offered only once a year and is cheaper. I will also try to redefine my learning techniques, take the life purpose course with the extra money.  I could stick to my current uni and major in comp sci, likely get a job out of school and overall less pain in, and out of school.

I feel like being a physicist( even if I don't get paid ) will be a much more enjoyable experience for me in the long run than a programmer. This is because the size of the physics problems get less and larger and am able to ponder questions for a very long time; which is something I have dreamed of doing. I don't think I would mind being a programmer/janitor after doing my physics degree provided that I am capable of comprehending and am able to theorize about the universe.

I most likely have a ego to do with physics, I can attempt to remove it so I can see what my authentic self wants, how do I remove it?

Any advice on what to take and why?

 

Edited May 7, 2018 by Proactive

[Elisabeth]

I sympathize. And I don't recommend doing physics if you're slow at it. Physics courses ARE hard. You don't learn as much nice popular stories you'd like to, it's all math. It's important to actually be able to enjoy the process of your studies. And if you wanna theorize about the universe ... it takes a lot to understand the most fundamental theories on the mathematical level. We're talking about 10 years hard work and then you're a specialist in a really small subfield of a theory. 

Make physics your hobby. Pick up amateur astronomy, do great photographs and enjoy the image processing. Read popular books such as the First three minutes. If your math skills are good, take introductory courses into theoretical mechanics (you need the Hamiltonian formalism for quantum mechanics) and quantum theory or theory of relativity online, at your own pace. Whatever it is that feels like satiating your curiosity.

You could also consider a specialization in numerical methods (solving differential equations)/ computer modelling and offer your technical skills to an institution that does astronomy. There are many physicists today who (are forced to) do (bad) programming because they need specialized software, I think there is a market. That way you could even have a masters in computer science and still earn a phd in physics

Edited May 7, 2018 by Elisabeth