Hey everyone,

I’m at a stage where I need to decide between going into research (physics) or shifting towards a tech/quant career, and I’m genuinely confused.

On one side, I think I’m interested in physics and research. I like solving problems, thinking deeply, and working through tough concepts. But I haven’t really experienced actual research yet, so I don’t know if I truly enjoy it or just like the idea of it.

On the other side, I have a decent background in coding and math, and I know tech/quant paths are more structured and financially rewarding.

Here’s my honest situation:

  • Money does matter to me — I want a comfortable, financially secure life
  • I’m willing to work hard, but I don’t want to commit to something I might end up disliking
  • I’m unsure if I actually enjoy research or if I’ll burn out later
  • At the same time, I don’t want to regret not giving physics a proper shot

So I feel stuck between:

  • Research path: Long-term, uncertain, possibly meaningful
  • Tech/Quant path: More stable, high-paying, clearer trajectory

Would really appreciate advice on:

  1. How did you figure out whether research was actually for you?
  2. Is it possible to explore both paths seriously at the same time?
  3. If I try research and later decide it’s not for me, is switching to tech/quant still realistic?
  4. What are some signs that someone is actually suited for research?
  5. If you were in my position, how would you approach the next couple of years?

Looking for honest perspectives, especially from people who’ve faced a similar dilemma.

Thanks in advance 🙏

reddit.com
u/tachyon4_2 — 2 months ago
▲ 10 r/IITDelhi+1 crossposts

Hey everyone,

I’m at a stage where I need to decide between going into research (physics) or shifting towards a tech/quant career, and I’m genuinely confused.

On one side, I think I’m interested in physics and research. I like solving problems, thinking deeply, and working through tough concepts. But I haven’t really experienced actual research yet, so I don’t know if I truly enjoy it or just like the idea of it.

On the other side, I have a decent background in coding and math, and I know tech/quant paths are more structured and financially rewarding.

Here’s my honest situation:

  • Money does matter to me — I want a comfortable, financially secure life
  • I’m willing to work hard, but I don’t want to commit to something I might end up disliking
  • I’m unsure if I actually enjoy research or if I’ll burn out later
  • At the same time, I don’t want to regret not giving physics a proper shot

So I feel stuck between:

  • Research path: Long-term, uncertain, possibly meaningful
  • Tech/Quant path: More stable, high-paying, clearer trajectory

Would really appreciate advice on:

  1. How did you figure out whether research was actually for you?
  2. Is it possible to explore both paths seriously at the same time?
  3. If I try research and later decide it’s not for me, is switching to tech/quant still realistic?
  4. What are some signs that someone is actually suited for research?
  5. If you were in my position, how would you approach the next couple of years?

Looking for honest perspectives, especially from people who’ve faced a similar dilemma.

Thanks in advance 🙏

reddit.com
u/tachyon4_2 — 2 months ago