Another difference is the established rules that must be followed and the added protection and safety required of today's chemists. This is good because it protects the health of the worker. Therefore, chemists must wear protective clothing such as safety glasses, safety shoes, gloves, and sometimes respirators. While performing an experiment, the chemist usually works inside a hood that has an exhaust system equipped with filters and scrubbers to prevent harmful materials from reaching the atmosphere. Nevertheless, the chemist's inquisitive nature and continued quest to understand how matter reacts is the same as it has been for hundreds of years.
Chemists spend many years in colleges and universities preparing for their life's work.
The goal for most chemists is to obtain a Ph.D., but this degree is not necessary to become a technician or to teach or to become a chemical engineer. Deciding on a specialty is important. Many chemists began with elementary or secondary school science projects, then find summer jobs in industry or internships with chemical companies. A mentor or several mentors may help with advice and projects that advance the neophyte into a strong chemistry career. Take as much mathematics and science in junior high and high school as you can.