What does a botanist actually do?

I'm considering majoring in something plant-related, and botany seems like an option. What does being a botanist entail, and what kind of jobs could I get with a botany degree?

Botany is indeed an exciting field of study, and as someone who decides to major in it, you would be diving deep into the study of plants. Botanists study plant life at the molecular level right up to the ecosystem, exploring how they grow, reproduce, absorb nutrients, and respond to the environment. They also often specialize in specific areas like ecology, taxonomy, pharmacology, or agriculture.

In terms of career paths, a degree in botany can open up a wide range of opportunities. Here are a few examples:

1. Plant Biologist: Study plants on the molecular and cellular level, focusing on plant development, reproduction, and physiology.

2. Ecologist: Investigate how plants interact with other organisms and the environment within ecosystems.

3. Conservationist: Work in conserving and managing natural resources, both in public and private organizations.

4. Agricultural Scientist: Research ways to improve crop yield and deal with pests, or develop sustainable farming practices.

5. Teacher/Professor: Share your plant knowledge with others, either as a teacher in a high school or as a professor at a university.

6. Horticulturist: Focus on the cultivation and care of plants, often working in greenhouses, botanical gardens, or nurseries.

7. Pharmacognosist: Study the properties of medicinal plants and their potential in drug discovery.

Many botanists also find work in pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, government bodies like the USDA, and environmental consultancies. Keep in mind that certain roles, specifically in academia or research, usually require graduate-level education beyond a Bachelor's degree. Good luck with your decision! The world of plants has so much to offer.