I'm currently a senior in high school considering a Data Science major as an undergraduate in college.

Data science is an emerging field, and I know some folks around here have transitioned into it, so I'd be interested to hear your thoughts on this decision.

I'm considering a major in data science because I'm interested in computer science, math, physics, and business. At the moment my goal is to become a professor (i.e. PhD, research, and teaching), but I know tenure-track positions are competitive and am also interested in data-driven decisions in business (which I assume is a very employable direction).

The main advice I'm looking for is what classes to take as an undergraduate. I plan to attend a large public university in the Midwest that will give me the option to create my own major. At the moment I've drawn inspiration from Ohio State's "Data Analytics" undergraduate major, which has core curriculum in computer science, math, and stats. I've found the sample four-year advising plan for the business specialization in the major very helpful, and at the moment am considering a course very similar to the one outlined with the possible addition of a physics class or two.

Feedback on taking that sort of coursework as an undergraduate?

General comments about the field of data science and potential careers in either academia or industry?

What other advice would you give a high school senior in my position? What other questions should I be thinking about?

Imho I think you are far ahead of the curve and correctly thinking about how you should be approaching a major (employment demand, salary, etc.).

Other advice would be to network appropriately, find and apply for the right internships, and look for extra activities/volunteer work that would make you more appealing to businesses when they are looking to hire.

Don't forget to take advantage of opportunities that college might afford you at a more reasonable cost than otherwise (travel for example). Also have a little fun once in awhile. Being able to de-stress and allow your mind downtime helps you be more productive when you're actually working.

Were you 15 when you joined this site?