Majors Minors & Maybes

What happens when fashion meets the future? Enter the world of the 3D garment/apparel designer. The pros turning pixels into pants and software into style. In this episode of Majors, Minors & Maybes, we follow Lila, a digital designer whose “day at the office” includes sculpting clothes in 3D, stress-testing fabrics in virtual wind tunnels, and making sure a gown drapes flawlessly before a single thread is cut.It’s fast, it’s sustainable, and it’s transforming how the fashion industry works, from haute couture to your hoodie.Bonus: You’ll even hear from Mikelle Drew-Pellum, a real 3D apparel designer, about why this career is more than a trend. It’s the future of fashion.If you’ve ever wondered who designs the clothes you can’t yet touch but already love, this episode is for you.Mikelle Drew-Pellum383designstudionyc.cominstagram.com/383designlinkedin.com/in/mikelledrewtiktok.com/@383designShow Notes:3D Garment/Apparel Designer: Fashion Built in Pixels Before FabricDr. W launches season two of “Majors, Minors, and Maybes” by spotlighting the 3D garment/apparel designer, a career blending fashion, code, and sustainability by creating virtual garments that drape, stretch, and move before any physical sample is made. Through a day-in-the-life of Lila, the episode shows digital prototyping, instant global collaboration, stress-testing fit and fabrics, and designing metaverse-only couture for avatars. Dr. W explains how tools like CLO 3D and Browzwear speed timelines, reduce textile waste, and expand fashion into digital wardrobes, and includes insights from 3D designer Mikelle Drew Pellum on patternmaking, virtual sewing, accurate fit, and sustainability gains from fewer physical samples. The episode suggests relevant majors, key skills, work settings, a $60K–$100K+ salary range, and teases next week’s career: Aerospace Behavioral Scientist.00:00 Season Two Returns01:44 Meet the 3D Designer02:02 A Day With Lila03:59 Office Hours Breakdown05:13 Pro Explains the Process05:54 How to Get Started07:29 Why 3D Changes Fashion08:41 Sustainability Impact09:55 Digital Fashion Boom10:58 Wrap Up and Next Episode

Do you know what you want to be when you grow up?Season 2 of Majors, Minors & Maybes is back! This time, we’re digging even deeper into the careers you didn’t know existed, but suddenly can’t stop thinking about.We’re talking about the kind of jobs that make you pause mid-scroll and say, “Wait that’s a thing?” The kind of careers your guidance counselor definitely forgot to mention. The kind that sound made up… until they’re not.This season, we’re opening the door to even more curious and quietly fascinating professions, one story at a time.So, whether you’ve got a five-year plan, no plan, or a color-coded spreadsheet that’s hanging on by a thread, you’re in the right place.Because around here, curiosity is the major and everything else? Optional.Season 2 drops now and you’re going to want to take notes!Show Notes:Unexpected Paths: Careers Shaping the FutureThe script introduces a season focused on innovative, future-shaping careers that people often stumble upon rather than plan for, highlighting jobs most people aren’t aware exist. It invites listeners who wonder “what else could I be doing?” to follow along as the show traces unexpected paths to uncover emerging roles shaping the future before they’re widely known. Dr. W. positions the season as a guide for those seeking alternatives beyond familiar options and closes by addressing that season two begins now.00:00 Careers You Stumble Upon00:11 Digging for Future Jobs00:20 Hidden World of Work00:23 Following Unexpected Paths00:30 Jobs You Haven't Heard Of00:33 Shaping the Future Early00:39 What Else Could I Do00:42 Season Two Starts Now

It's our season finale and we are going out in style with wrinkle-free, perfectly packed layers. In this episode, we meet Jordan, a personal travel gear curator who turns chaotic packing into a luxury experience. Think RFID kits, climate-smart wardrobes, and outfits tailored by region, vibe, and weather app.But that’s not all, we’re reflecting on our wild ride through the wonderfully weird world of work, and giving you a sneak peek at what’s ahead.So before you jet off for the holidays, press play, because your passport isn’t the only thing getting stamped with inspiration.Show Notes:Unpacking the Role of a Personal Travel Gear CuratorIn the season finale of 'Majors, Minors, and Maybes, Dr. W, a professor and part-time career sleuth, introduces us to the unique and fascinating job of a personal travel gear curator. This professional ensures clients travel efficiently and in style, preparing them with everything from wardrobes to tech gadgets. We meet Jordan, a travel gear curator who shares their experience of organizing perfect travel kits for various climates and needs. The episode not only delves into the logistics and creativity required for the role but also explores the potential career opportunities in travel consulting, luxury concierge services, and fashion logistics. Dr. W. wraps up the season with tips and insights, encouraging listeners to look into their quirks for potential career paths and teasing the upcoming second season.00:00 Introduction to the Personal Travel Gear Curator00:54 Meet Jordan: The Personal Travel Gear Curator01:26 The Art and Science of Packing01:46 Season Finale Reflections02:19 Final Office Hours: Holiday Edition02:40 Career Advice for Travel Enthusiasts03:09 High-End Travel Curation03:28 Season Wrap-Up and Future Plans03:57 Holiday Wishes and Farewell

What do you get when you cross a researcher with a storyteller? A hybrid writing scientific consultant. These are the folks who make complex science not just readable, but unforgettable. In this episode, we follow Milo from grant proposals to blog posts, decoding breakthroughs in genetics one minute, and drafting policy briefs the next.Whether it’s helping doctors understand the latest studies or turning lab results into public health campaigns, Milo's job is where precision meets prose.Get ready for a behind-the-scenes look at a career that blends curiosity, communication, and just the right amount of caffeine. If you've ever asked, “But who translates the science?” This one is for you.Show Notes:The Hybrid Writing Science Consultant: Bridging the Gap Between Data and StorytellingIn this episode of Majors, Minors, and Maybes, Dr. W. dives into the unique and fascinating career of a hybrid writing science consultant. Meet Milo, a professional who translates complex scientific ideas into clear and engaging narratives for various audiences, including research teams and the general public. Learn what it takes to succeed in this role that demands both precision and creativity. Dr. W. discusses the skills required, potential career paths, and the significant impact this career has on bridging the gap between science and society. Ideal for those with a background in science and a passion for storytelling, this episode unveils how such professionals make scientific information accessible and impactful.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:27 Meet Milo: The Science Whisperer00:52 A Day in the Life of a Science Consultant01:50 Is This Career for You?02:24 The Dual Role: Researcher and Writer02:56 Building a Career in Science Consulting03:48 Where Science Consultants Work04:10 Skills and Salary Insights04:51 The Impact of Science Writers05:22 Conclusion and Next Steps

What do medical manikins, high-stakes drama, and behind-the-scenes brilliance have in common? Meet the Clinical Simulation Specialist. These are the folks who builds immersive healthcare training scenarios where the stakes feel real, but the patients are not. From heart attacks on cue to VR surgical rehearsals, Taylor here you will how a blend of tech, theatre, and medicine prepares our future healthcare heroes. It’s part ER, part Hollywood, and 100% real-world impact.Get ready for a career that’s got adrenaline, innovation, and just a dash of stage fright.Show Notes:Behind the Scenes of Medical Training: The Role of a Clinical Simulation SpecialistIn this episode of Majors, Minors, and Maybes, Dr. W. delves into the fascinating world of clinical simulation specialists. This unique profession blends technology, healthcare, and theater to create lifelike medical emergencies for training purposes. From programming high-fidelity mannequins to handling VR simulations, these specialists ensure healthcare providers are well-prepared for real-world emergencies. The episode covers job responsibilities, necessary qualifications, and potential career paths in this innovative field. Next, the show teases a look into the role of science writers who turn complex data into accessible information.00:00 Introduction to Clinical Simulation00:44 Meet the Clinical Simulation Specialist01:03 A Day in the Life of a Simulation Specialist02:14 The Impact and Scope of the Role02:50 Is This Career for You?04:01 Pathways to Becoming a Simulation Specialist05:20 Fun Facts and Advanced Simulations06:27 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser

This Halloween bonus episode of Majors, Minors & Maybes takes us into the shadows of the courtroom with a career you’ve probably never heard of, the medical-legal illustrator. Think of them as detectives with a pencil translating X-rays, medical jargon, and surgical notes into visuals so clear they can sway a jury.In this bite-sized, slightly spooky side quest, we peel back the curtain on a day in their life, explore how art and anatomy collide in the pursuit of justice, and even hear directly from a real medical-legal illustrator! Expect a touch of gore, a dash of whimsy, and plenty of curiosity as we sketch out a job that proves truth really can be illustrated.Perfect for Halloween week, or anytime you like your careers with a little extra edge.Show Notes:Unveiling Medical-Legal Illustration: The Art of Courtroom ClarityIn this special Halloween edition of 'Majors, Minors, and Maybes,' listeners are introduced to the intriguing world of medical-legal illustration. The host explores a career that bridges the gap between medicine and law, transforming complex medical evidence into clear, visual stories for the courtroom. Featuring insights from professional medical-legal illustrator Annie Gaugh, the episode delves into the unique responsibilities and impactful work of these illustrators in cases of catastrophic injury, medical malpractice, and wrongful death. From sketching detailed anatomical drawings to working closely with radiologists and testifying doctors, medical-legal illustrators play a crucial role in justice. With only about 2,000 medical illustrators globally and a mere 20% specializing in the legal field, this niche career offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of art, science, and law.00:00 Introduction to the Halloween Special00:18 What is a Medical Legal Illustrator?02:10 A Day in the Life of a Courtroom Artist02:50 Balancing Gore and Clarity03:36 The Role of Medical Legal Illustrators in Court05:13 The Niche Field of Medical Legal Illustration07:12 Conclusion and Halloween Sign-OffMeet Annie Gough:https://injuryillustrated.com/about-annie-gough/Don't forget to check out her book: Injury Illustrated: How Medical Images Win Legal Cases by R. Annie Gough, MS, CMI

Bugs, bytes, and a changing climate? Yes, it’s a thing! In this episode of Majors, Minors & Maybes, we meet the climate entomology informatics specialist. It’s a mouthful of a job title that basically means they track insects using data to understand how climate change is shaking up ecosystems.From digital fieldwork to predictive models, this is a career that blends biology, tech, and environmental sleuthing. Tune in as we decode how tiny creatures are giving us big clues about the planet’s future and why bug-loving data nerds just might save the world.Get ready for a career story full of algorithms, antennae, and aha moments.Show Notes: Beetles, Data, and Climate: The Role of a Climate Entomology Informatics SpecialistIn this episode of Majors, Minors, and Maybes, hosted by Dr. W., we explore the fascinating and niche career of a Climate Entomology Informatics Specialist. Through a mix of storytelling and expert insights, we learn how professionals like Alex use big data, environmental models, and coding to study how insects respond to climate change. The episode covers everything from the educational path to skill requirements and the exciting real-world impact of this role. We also delve into the blend of fieldwork and data science that characterizes the job, offering a detailed breakdown for anyone intrigued by the intersection of ecology, technology, and environmental conservation. Dr. W. wraps up by teasing the next episode, which will delve into the world of Clinical Simulation Specialists.00:00 Introduction to Climate Entomology Informatics00:46 Meet Alex: A Day in the Life01:53 Office Hours: Bug Data and Biodiversity03:59 Career Path: Becoming a Climate Data Detective05:47 Curious Career Facts of the Week06:26 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview

What if your clothes could think? In this episode of Majors, Minors & Maybes, we thread the needle between fashion and tech with a career that is as futuristic as it is fabulous. We are plunging into the 3D textile designer. From temperature-sensitive fabrics to garments that light up and charge your phone, these fabric wizards are blending engineering, design, and a touch of sci-fi magic to change the way we dress and live.Join Dr. W. as she talks wearable tech, digital looms, and what it really takes to craft clothes that can code. Whether you’re a DIY tinkerer, a fashion lover, or just into smart threads, this episode is stitched just for you.Show Notes:The Future of Fashion: Exploring 3D Textile DesignJoin Dr. W as she dives into the world of 3D textile design, where fashion meets technology. Discover how designers create fabrics that stretch, shimmer, and compute, and meet Jamie, a 3D textile designer who turns innovative concepts into reality. Learn about the career path, essential skills, and earning potential in this cutting-edge field. Plus, get inspired with real-world examples and a preview of the next episode on climate informatics.00:00 Introduction to Futuristic Fabrics00:38 What is 3D Textile Design?01:20 Meet Jamie: The 3D Textile Designer01:42 A Day in the Life of a 3D Textile Designer02:33 The Future and Opportunities in 3D Textile Design02:59 Office Hours: Is 3D Textile Design for You?03:19 Career Path and Industry Insights04:14 Innovations and Fun Facts04:44 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview

Think all the action happens above ground? Think again! In this episode of Majors, Minors & Maybes, we dig deep (no pun intended) into the wild world of microbial ecology. Meet Leo, a fungi-loving field scientist decoding underground fungal networks, glowing bacteria, and the secret lives of microbes that just might save our forests and our future.From mushroom-powered climate tech to DNA in volcanic soil, this episode is a spore-spangled adventure that blends science, storytelling, and the tiniest heroes of the natural world. Get ready for dirt, data, and a whole lot of discovery; because saving the planet sometimes starts with a fungus!Show Notes:Unearthing Microbial Ecology: The Hidden World Beneath Our FeetJoin Dr. W as she explores the fascinating world of microbial ecology. Discover how fungi communicate underground, how microbial ecologists are pioneering research that could help save our planet, and learn about the broad career opportunities in this quirky and impactful field. From hiking in the woods to coding in the lab, microbial ecology combines technology, biology, and innovation. This episode not only delves into how microbes shape our environment, health, and agriculture but also provides a snapshot of what it takes to become a microbial ecologist. Whether you're into biology, tech, or just curious about the unseen world, this episode has something for you.00:00 Introduction to the Secret World of Fungi01:33 Meet Leo the Microbial Ecologist02:58 The Fascinating Work of Microbial Ecologists04:42 Career Path and Opportunities in Microbial Ecology05:55 Fun Facts and Final Thoughts06:52 Sneak Peek into the Next Episode

Do you think that therapy is just couches and clipboards? Think again. On this episode of Majors, Minors & Maybes, we are stepping into the pixelated world of virtual reality therapy. Where high-tech headsets help people conquer fears, rewire habits, and build confidence one simulation at a time.Together with Dr. W., you will explore the virtual reality therapist who trades in traditional talk for immersive experiences. From calming public speaking jitters to helping clients face phobias in digital safe zones, these healthcare providers blend psychology, storytelling, and tech into one powerfully human job.It’s part science, part sci-fi, and all about healing!Show Notes:Pixels to Healing: Exploring the World of Virtual Reality TherapistsJoin Dr. W in this episode of Majors, Minors, and Maybes as she delves into the futuristic realm of virtual reality therapy. Discover how VR therapists like Jordan are transforming mental health care by helping clients confront their fears and anxieties through immersive technology. This episode breaks down the career path, necessary skills, and unique innovations making VR therapy a cutting-edge field. From public speaking anxieties to chronic pain management, learn how this blend of psychology, tech, and creativity is opening new doors for healing.00:00 Introduction to Virtual Reality Therapy00:59 Meet Jordan: The VR Therapist02:43 How VR Therapy Works04:40 Becoming a VR Therapist06:08 The Future of VR Therapy07:58 Curious Career Fact of the Week09:14 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser

Maggots. Murder. Mystery. Let’s go!They say the truth is in the details and in this case, it's in the bugs. Grab your magnifying glass (and maybe a strong stomach), we are heading into the wild world of forensic entomology where tiny insects become crime-solving heroes. From blowflies to beetles, these tiny timekeepers help forensic scientists crack cases and tell the truth when no one else can.It’s science with a twist, justice with a squirm, and a career that is as unexpectedly cool as it is crucial.Show Notes:Forensic Entomology: Solving Crimes with BugsIn this episode of Majors, Minors, and Maybes, Dr. W., a professor, mom, and part-time detective, unearths the fascinating world of forensic entomology. Discover how Riley's childhood curiosity with bugs led to a fulfilling career analyzing insects to help solve crimes. Learn about the science behind forensic entomology, its combination of biology, detective work, and the unique process that allows experts to estimate time of death with precision. Dr. W. also outlines the educational path, potential salary, and job opportunities in this unusual and intriguing career. Finally, stay tuned for the next episode featuring VR therapists who treat trauma with virtual reality.00:00 Introduction to Unconventional Careers01:06 Meet Riley: The Forensic Entomologist01:40 The Science Behind Forensic Entomology04:22 Career Path and Opportunities06:15 Curious Career Facts and Conclusion

A mystery is brewing and tiny insects might just hold the answers. In 48 hours, Majors, Minors & Maybes heads into the curious, squirmy world of forensic entomology. Spoiler alert: maggots are about to steal the spotlight.In this bonus teaser, Dr. W. gives you a sneak peek at the next episode where science meets crime scenes, bugs become timekeepers, and careers get unexpectedly creepy-cool.Set your reminders. Sharpen your curiosity. The crime-solving critters are coming.Show Notes:Forensic Entomology: Bugs on the CaseIn just 48 hours, majors, minors, and maybes returns to explore the intriguing world of forensic entomology, where insects assist in solving crimes and biology intersects with justice. This episode features a fictional bug detective and details the real-life path to a career in this unique field. Learn how Blowflies, Beatles, and biological insights help establish crime scene timelines. Subscribe and don't miss this fascinating dive into an unusual yet important profession on majors, minors, and maybes.00:00 Introduction to Forensic Entomology00:11 Exploring the World of Forensic Entomology00:23 Meet the Bug Detective00:32 The Role of Insects in Crime Scene Investigation00:41 Subscribe for More Fascinating Careers

Ever rage-quit a health app because the login made zero sense? Enter the healthcare UX (user experience) designer. Part techie, part empath, and full-time digital lifesaver.On this episode of Majors, Minors & Maybes, we follow the designer on a mission to rescue users from the labyrinth of confusing forms, medical jargon, and clunky buttons. With a toolkit full of sticky notes, empathy, and interface magic, healthcare headaches transform into “Aha!” moments.It’s detective work, but for apps. Instead of solving crimes, they solve user frustration one swipe at a time.If you’ve got a creative brain, a problem-solving heart, and a soft spot for clean design? This might just be your new favorite maybe.Show Notes:Humanizing Health Tech: Inside Healthcare UX DesignIn this episode of Majors, Minors, and Maybes, Dr. W. explores the integral role of healthcare UX designers in making health technology more user-friendly and accessible. The episode dives into the day-to-day challenges and triumphs of these digital dream weavers, featuring a real-world example from Alex, a healthcare UX designer at a fast-paced digital health startup. Dr. W. also discusses the interdisciplinary nature of the field, how to get started, and career prospects. Listeners are encouraged to appreciate the design elements in health apps and consider healthcare UX design as a potential career path.00:00 Introduction to Healthcare UX Design01:53 Meet Alex: A Day in the Life of a Healthcare UX Designer03:42 The Importance of Empathy in UX Design04:35 How to Start a Career in Healthcare UX Design06:41 Career Insights and Opportunities07:51 Curious Career Facts and Conclusion08:51 Sneak Peek: Forensic Entomology

Forget farm-to-table! We are talking space-to-salad.In this episode of Majors, Minors & Maybes, your professor, mom, and part-time career detective, Dr. W. explores the surprisingly down-to-earth role of a space agriculture scientist. These are the folks figuring out how to grow fresh food where there’s no gravity, no soil, and surely no bees.Follow a fictional day in the life of Priya, a scientist testing lettuce in low orbit, and get the real scoop on what it takes to turn microgreens into mission-critical tech. From hydroponics to moon radishes, it’s a STEM career that’s weird, wonderful, and wildly futuristic.If you’ve ever wondered what a botanist would do on Mars, or just want a side of spinach with your stargazing, this one’s for you.Show Notes:From Space Stations to Salad Stations: The Science of Space AgricultureIn this episode of Majors, Minors, and Maybes, Dr. W introduces the fascinating world of space agriculture. Explore how scientists like Priya are transforming space stations into thriving salad stations by growing food without traditional resources like gravity, soil, or sunlight. Discover the career path of a Space Agriculture Scientist, including the educational requirements, potential earnings, and key skills needed. Learn about the real-world applications of this research, from solving food insecurity to promoting climate-resilient farming, and consider if this interdisciplinary, experiment-heavy career could be your next maybe. The episode wraps up with listener engagement prompts and a teaser for the next episode on improving health app designs.00:00 Introduction: Astronauts and Salad Bars01:10 Meet the Space Agriculture Scientist02:05 A Day in the Life of Priya03:54 The Science Behind Space Farming04:35 Career Path and Opportunities07:00 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser

Ever watched a video of a cell dividing or a heart valve opening and thought, “Wait…how did they film that?” Spoiler alert: they didn’t! It was animated by someone who speaks both molecule and motion. In this episode of Majors, Minors & Maybes, we dive into the dazzling world of biomedical animators, the visual translators who turn complex science into stunning stories. Dr. W. unpacks how these science-meets-art professionals blend biology, design, and a whole lot of coffee to help researchers, doctors, and even courtroom juries understand what’s going on inside the human body.Whether you’re a med school aspirant with a sketchbook, a Pixar fan with a biology minor, or just curious how proteins get cast in digital spotlight, this episode is for you.Show Notes:From Med School to Animation: Exploring Biomedical AnimationIn this episode of Majors, Minors, and Maybes, Dr. W introduces Elena, a fictional character who navigates a path from a pre-med student to a biomedical animator. Elena’s story highlights the intersection of science and art, as she moves from traditional medical ambitions to creating intricate medical animations. Dr. W delves into the educational pathways, job prospects, and real-world applications of biomedical animation, offering a comprehensive overview of this unique and interdisciplinary career. The episode concludes with a sneak peek into the next fascinating career: a space agriculture scientist.00:00 Introduction to Majors, Minors, and Maybes00:52 Meet Elena: From Med School Aspirant to Biomedical Animator02:35 Discovering Biomedical Animation02:55 The Role and Impact of a Biomedical Animator03:45 Career Path and Opportunities in Biomedical Animation05:07 Historical Context and Conclusion

Welcome to Majors, Minors & Maybes! Join Dr. W., professor, mom, and part-time career detective, as she unpacks the wonderfully weird world of work. Each episode blends storytelling and real-world insights to explore the surprising and sometimes downright delightful careers, that will make you say “Wait, that’s a real job?!”Whether you are a student, a career-changer, or just someone who’s endlessly curious, this is your invitation to explore the wildly unexpected paths a career can take.Because your future might not be on a job board. It might be waiting in your podcast queue.Show Notes:Exploring Unconventional Careers with Dr. WWelcome to Majors, Minors, and Maybes, a podcast hosted by Dr. W, a professor, mom, and part-time career detective. This podcast shines a light on unique and often overlooked jobs that keep the world running, featuring fictional characters in real-world careers. From forensic entomologists to VR therapists, each episode reveals fascinating roles and the non-linear paths people take to discover them. Join Dr. W in majoring in curiosity, minoring in fun, and maybe discovering your next career obsession.00:00 Introduction to Majors, Minors, and Maybes00:11 Meet Your Host: Dr. W00:16 Exploring Unconventional Careers00:38 Fictional Stories, Real Jobs01:03 Join the Adventure