Joshua
Is this a good plan of action for a major in environmental science?
I was told by a family friend that the best thing to do with an environmental major is to begin by working for the state government, and then after getting more experience, work for businesses doing such things as environmental impact tests. Is this good advice? #science #environmental #environment #ecology #environmentalism
2 answers
Marina Castro
Marina’s Answer
Hi Joshua,
The places you choose to work in, with an environmental major, really depends on the career path you choose to take. Working for a government agency and then transferring to the private sector is beneficial if you are looking to eventually work in consulting or as an environmental professional in a private company to assist in such aspects as regulatory compliance, risk abatement, and environmental testing. You would get a wealth of experience on the regulatory aspect by working for government, and you would get an understanding of the requirements that companies need to meet.
However, you really have to ask yourself why you chose an environmental major in the first place. You may be happier working in conservation for a nonprofit, or maybe you will just choose to work for government to enforce and implement the rules that protect the environment and public health. Environmental professional work in such a variety of fields and sectors, that it's worth doing your research to see what appeals most to you.
Personally, I started in private industry and moved to the federal government, which is where I work now, and I couldn't be happier. I'm sure as you give it more thought, you'll make the right decision and choose what's best for you. Best of luck!
Alexander Ross
Alexander’s Answer
For context, I majored in environmental engineering and now work in consulting. That is certainly good advice if that is what YOU want to do. I would highly recommend you consider the following things before landing on a career path.
1) Research the difference between various environmental majors. The job prospects for an environmental science major could be much different than those of an environmental engineering major. (I did environmental engineering, so I'm a bit biased and would recommend that :D)
2) Don't be afraid to try new things. My first internship was on a manufacturing plant and when I realized I didn't like it that much, I pursued and found my next internship which focused more on business and consulting. It is great to get experiences in many different fields before choosing your preferred path.
3) Research research research. There is an overwhelming number of different careers out there, and as you progress through school/jobs, you will continuously be changing what you think is best for you. Always continue to research different options as your preferences and experiences change. Talk to different counselors, professors, friends, and others whose opinions you value about different majors/career paths, and always remember that you can change path at any point.
Overall, don't feel tied down to any set path too early. Always have an open mind about new experiences, and even negative experiences can offer a valuable perspective. Knowing what you DON'T want to do can often help you determine what you DO want to do. Good luck!