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What can I do now to prepare myself for a future in Marine Biology?
#biology #marine-biology #science #oceanography #oceanconservation
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Andrew’s Answer
The best thing you can do is get as much experience as possible! I've listed some options you can explore below. Most of the opportunities you'll find will be on a volunteer basis, there's very few paid opportunities or internships and they're also very competitive. Volunteering is typically a pre-requisite for finding a paid internship/role in conservation biology.
Don't limit yourself strictly to marine biology roles if access is an issue. Aim to maximize your volunteer hours and build relationships with those that are managing those programs. They'll help you network to find get into more specific marine biology opportunities and will make excellent references.
Remember that it's a journey! Take those incremental steps and eventually you'll reach exactly where you want to go. It's always best to have a consistent position while you search for that perfect role.
Even volunteer opportunities can max out, so you'll have to be patient and continuously apply and engage with organizations that match your ideal fit.
Find local wildlife and research institutions you can volunteer. I volunteered with a wildlife rehabilitation in my neighborhood where I helped take care of wildlife.
Volunteer as a docent or educator at your local zoo or state run environmental education center.
Volunteer virtually - there are opportunities to participate in training programs to become educational ambassadors that do remote visits.
Create your own volunteer opportunity - are there particular issues you care about in your community? Organize trash clean-ups, native flora planting, or other types of conservation activities. Consult your local conservation groups for assistance!
Don't limit yourself strictly to marine biology roles if access is an issue. Aim to maximize your volunteer hours and build relationships with those that are managing those programs. They'll help you network to find get into more specific marine biology opportunities and will make excellent references.
Remember that it's a journey! Take those incremental steps and eventually you'll reach exactly where you want to go. It's always best to have a consistent position while you search for that perfect role.
Even volunteer opportunities can max out, so you'll have to be patient and continuously apply and engage with organizations that match your ideal fit.
Andrew recommends the following next steps:
Hi Mr. Datu, thank you for the ideas! I really appreciate them!!
Jessica
Updated
Willie’s Answer
hello, I am sure every response on here will be of use and should be taken as great advice. I will try not to be redundant.
- Realize the many aspects of marine biology (the micro- and macro-world) and study as though your scope of employment encompasses all areas
- Do not be timid or reluctant to reach out to anybody in the research area of your interest. Even if it is the laboratory tech or the 1st year graduate student (build a professional relationship/network, that you can feel comfortable in relying on during easy and difficult times)
- My favorite is to learn how to collaborate and communicate with others: any science subject area is best learned from diligent studying and discussing the topics with peers/mentors/professors
- in the summer months (May, June, July) and times off (holiday breaks), review the material from the year to recap the knowledge without the pressures of exam taking
- in the summer months (July, August) review the content within the syllabus for the upcoming classes you will be taking
Enjoy college, study hard, have fun but limit it, and focus ......
Remember: when you are playing or relaxing on break that someone else, somewhere else is working to be the best (marine biologist or in any discipline) at the same time as your relaxing or taking a break.!
- Realize the many aspects of marine biology (the micro- and macro-world) and study as though your scope of employment encompasses all areas
- Do not be timid or reluctant to reach out to anybody in the research area of your interest. Even if it is the laboratory tech or the 1st year graduate student (build a professional relationship/network, that you can feel comfortable in relying on during easy and difficult times)
- My favorite is to learn how to collaborate and communicate with others: any science subject area is best learned from diligent studying and discussing the topics with peers/mentors/professors
- in the summer months (May, June, July) and times off (holiday breaks), review the material from the year to recap the knowledge without the pressures of exam taking
- in the summer months (July, August) review the content within the syllabus for the upcoming classes you will be taking
Enjoy college, study hard, have fun but limit it, and focus ......
Remember: when you are playing or relaxing on break that someone else, somewhere else is working to be the best (marine biologist or in any discipline) at the same time as your relaxing or taking a break.!
Thank you for giving me advice.
Jessica
Updated
Kent’s Answer
Take as many science courses as possible. Research internship opportunities in your area.
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
Jessica
Updated
Eliza’s Answer
Definitely look into marine bio internships to see if this is actually something you enjoy doing. Also if you can try taking courses related to marine biology and also researching what marine biologists do on a day-to-day basis. The best thing for you to do is get out in the world and try to get as much experience as possible.
Thank you for the advice, Eliza.
Jessica