I want to know if you like your job. What are some of the chores you have to do everyday? I like science. What kinds of science will I have to take in college? Could a boy 10 years old do anything to be a practicing volcanologist?

Brian Mcananey

Dear Brian,

Yes, I like many things about my job. I would like more time "in the field" looking at volcanoes or volcanic rocks (I'll get some soon). The biggest chore is sitting at a computer and typing. To be a volcanologist you will have to take courses in math, chemistry, physics, computer science, and geology. You are probably off to a good start to be a practicing volcanologist. You seem naturally curious, which is a requirement. Explore the rocks around you. Even if they are not volcanic you will still be developing skills you'll sharpen later. Ask your parents to take you on a vacation near a volcano so you can collect your own samples and take your own photos and notes. Describe them in as much detail as you can. Get every book in the library on volcanoes and read them. Some great books to get started on are listed below. Write us again in a few years and we'll talk about college.

Steve Mattox, University of North Dakota

The following books are in BOOKS in Volcano Mall:

John Farndon, How the Earth Works
Sally Walker, Volcanoes Earth's Inner Fire
Robert Tilling, Born of Fire Volcanoes and Igneous Rocks
Robert and Barbara Decker, Mountains of Fire The Nature of Volcanoes

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