Physics vs Mechanical Engineering?

I'm an incoming senior in high school and beginning college apps. I'm looking into majors and trying to figure out which is best for me.



I have a couple of questions about physics vs mechanical engineering:

1) Which field is best for a woman, not only in college but as a career?

2) Is a PhD in physics really worth it? How does getting a PhD in physics compare to getting a BS in mechanical engineering?



I've always wanted to do some kind of physics research, but after reading horror stories online about people dropping out and/or ending up with an unsatisfactory non-STEM job and the long, arduous path towards a good physics career, I'm now shying away from a physics major. Still, I enjoy theoretical more than applied, so I'm still iffy about mechanical engineering.



Thanks for your input!