Got a Biology Degree? Don't Just Stand There, Do Something! (The Fun Guide to Your Next Move)
So you've just rocked your final exams, thrown your cap in the air, and officially got that shiny Bachelor of Science in Biology. Congrats! You're a certified science wizard! But wait... now what? If you're standing there thinking, "Uh, I have no idea," you're not alone. Like, seriously not alone. That biology degree is awesome because it's so broad, but that same breadth can feel like staring at a massive forest with no clear path.
But don't you dare panic! Think of it like this: you've got a super-powered brain, and now it's time to equip it with the right tools and point it in an exciting direction. Let's dig into some simple, fun steps to navigate your post-grad wilderness.
Get Your Hands Dirty (Seriously, Go Outside!)
Before you even think about signing up for another four years of school (unless you're super clear on that PhD path, go you!), the absolute best thing you can do is get some real-world experience. We're talking:
- Seasonal Field Tech Jobs: Ever dreamed of counting birds, tracking turtles, or surveying plants in a cool outdoor setting? These short-term gigs are your golden ticket. They might not pay a king's ransom, but they're experience gold!
- Internships: Whether paid or unpaid, an internship is like a sneak peek into different career paths. Plus, networking opportunities galore!
- Volunteering: Local nature centers, conservation groups, even university labs – every bit helps build your resume and connections.
Why? Because it helps you figure out what you actually enjoy (and what you really can't stand). Plus, future employers want to see that you can do more than just ace an exam.
Skill Up, Buttercup! (Your New Superpowers)
Listen up, because this is where you turn 'biology graduate' into 'irreplaceable asset.' While your degree gave you the foundational knowledge, certain practical skills will make you shine brighter than a firefly on a summer night:
- GIS (Geographic Information Systems): This is like Google Maps for science nerds, but way cooler. Mapping habitats, tracking species, analyzing environmental data – it's crucial for ecology!
- Data Analysis & Statistics: Ever heard of R or Python? These programming languages are your friends when it comes to crunching numbers and making sense of all that scientific data. Don't worry, they're not as scary as they sound!
- Specific Field Skills: Plant identification, bird banding techniques, water quality sampling – the more hands-on skills you have, the more valuable you become.
Consider taking a certificate program or online courses. These skills are often what land you those sweet entry-level jobs.
Where Do All the Biology Grads Go? (Beyond the Lab)
Your options are wider than you think! Forget just teaching or doctoring (unless you want to, of course!). Think about:
- Government Agencies: Federal giants like the National Park Service (NPS), US Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS), Forest Service, or even state environmental protection agencies. They need biologists for everything from wildlife management to environmental policy.
- Environmental Consulting: These firms work with businesses and governments on projects that need environmental impact assessments or restoration plans. Think problem-solving for nature!
- Non-Profits: Organizations dedicated to conservation, advocacy, or research always need passionate folks.
- Academia: If you do catch the research bug and decide for that Master's or PhD, universities are your playground.
Start looking at job boards for 'environmental technician,' 'field biologist,' 'conservation specialist' – you'll be surprised!
Master's or PhD? Pump the Brakes!
A lot of folks assume a Master's or PhD is the only way to get a good job. And sometimes, for higher-level research or management roles, it is! But here's the kicker: it's often better to gain a few years of experience first.
- Why? You'll go into your advanced degree with a clearer vision, better skills, and often, a network of contacts that can lead to thesis projects or funding. You'll also be able to pick a program that truly aligns with your career goals, rather than just picking one because it's 'the next step.'
So, fellow biology rockstar, take a deep breath. The path isn't always linear, and that's okay! Start by getting some real-world experience, hone those practical skills (GIS, stats!), explore the diverse world of environmental jobs, and only then, if it feels right, consider more schooling. Your journey is just beginning, and it's going to be an exciting one!
Inspired by: https://www.reddit.com/r/ecology/comments/1qd5388/close_to_finishing_a_bs_in_biology_and_now/