A career in environmental science is alluring because it gives you more than the opportunity to make money. You can actually do your bit for the world while pursuing something you are passionate about. But entering the job market is perhaps the most overwhelming part. You require experience even to get an entry-level position. But you also have to get in to gain ground experience. It’s a catch-22 situation for beginners! However, you can overcome the challenge by charting a viable roadmap and taking the right steps at the beginning of the journey. Here is the best career-boosting advice environment science aspirants can rely on.

Build a specialized skill

A degree in environmental science gives you the start you need to break into the industry, but it is seldom enough. You will find massive competition, and a specialized skill is the only way to set yourself apart. Pick something you are passionate about to pursue a career under the environmental umbrella. Data science, scientific illustration, and Capture-Mark-Recapture (CMR) are some fields you can specialize in. The good thing is that you can find online and offline courses to learn these extra skills.

Ramp up your naturalist skills

Getting additional skills is an advantage, but you cannot forget the basics when entering the industry. Ramping up your naturalist skills is equally crucial. The best part is that you need not depend on formal education to develop these skills. Just step out and explore your surroundings to practice them. Get connected to nature, look at plants and rocks, understand bird songs, and maintain a nature journal. These practices will make you better over time.

Get a professional certification

Adding a winning edge to your career takes more than education. Professional certification is a great step once you get the required education, training, and experience. You must look for one if considering a career in Environmental Science and chasing success. Getting certified adds credibility to your profile as it makes you a part of a group that exemplifies the highest professional ethics and standards.

Volunteer somewhere

Volunteering takes you a long way as it gets you out of the catch-22 fix. You can use it to get a real-world feel of the industry and gain technical and specialized skills by working in the field. Moreover, it brings the much-required experience for an entry-level position. You also gain valuable insight into a career as an environmental scientist so that you can decide if the path is even right for you. You can check with university research labs and local environmental organizations for volunteering opportunities in your area.

Attend environmental conferences

Attending conferences is a great way to learn and stay abreast with the latest research and professional developments. Most importantly, it is a chance to grow your network in the industry and leverage it to find opportunities. Look for conferences in your area, specifically the ones allowing entry-level professionals. You can even attend virtual events to overcome location constraints.

Finding a dream opportunity in the environmental science domain gets a lot easier if you take the right approach. Follow these expert-backed tips for a great start.

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Friday, May 20, 2022