I’ve been talking with a couple of want-to-be marine biologists over the last few months and they wanted to know what they could do that would help gain entry into the profession.
I said: “There are a lot of good biologists out there and only a very few positions to be filled every year. Having formal education in another discipline(s) that is useful and desired in the position that you seek will make you stand out from the crowd. Mine was electronics and statistics. A graduate degree in marine biology is a must. Be persistent by going to national meetings and talking with biologists who are working in your area of interest. Do not ignore any area of the country.”
Take courses that you don’t think will be useful but I’m telling you they will be e.g. writing, public speaking, accounting and personnel management. Get off the boat, into the boardroom and learn to speak their language – they control the money – no money, no research ergo no jobs. If some of these things are uncomfortable, well, put on your big-boy pants and work on them.
Here are some uncomfortable things that I and others have found helped them grow into their careers.
1. Question everything.
2. Be honest.
3. Wake up extremely early.
4. Watch your pennies.
5. Track what you eat.
6. Eat only nutritious food.
7. Practice public speaking.
8. Accomplish an almost impossible goal.
9. Pick just one thing to master at a time.
10. Write everything down.
11. Remember names – it flatters people.
Think Global – Act Local!
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