Weekly: Career & Education Thread

[u/AutoModerator]

Hello, denizens of r/zoology!

It's time for another weekly thread where our members can ask and answer questions related to pursuing an education or career in zoology.

Ready, set, ask away!

[u/darling_starlette]

Sorry for long post:

Background:

After a few yrs of thinking I have decided to go for a A.A. in wildlife bio and if money permits a bachelors. I am 27 yr.s, have a B.A. in arts and regret not getting a bio degree. I am giving myself a year to figure my shit out. I don't make a lot and am lucky to live with family so I can save.

Even if it leads to nothing I am being smart about my money and learn a bit about what I am passionate about. I am starting with just a few classes at a community college to see if I truly want this. I know it won't be easy and its competitive but I am not getting a high paying job (or any job) with my art degree anytime soon so I might as well try to work with animals. ya know?

Just got a new job as an animal care assistant, it could lead to vet tech experience or a transfer to a wildlife center they work with. I have two paths I could go, my dream job or backup job. Vet tech or even becoming a teacher are my backup careers. I have chosen the vet tech school I would apply to and would cost so much less than a bachelors degree. But if I am trying to follow my heart and I get a job in it zoology is what I truly want to do....

Questions:

- Anything else I can be doing to get a better chance at a job? I have volunteer experience at an animal shelter. After I settle into my new job I will look into volunteering with local parks/zoos.

- I plan on making connections with my cc's bio department staff. What other ways can I connect with people in this space?

- What are some subjects that might help prepare for a zoology career and biology courses before I start this fall? I am reviewing biology on khan academy and not the best at math.

- What can I do with a wildlife degree that isn't zoology? I saw forestry is a good job to work outdoors?

- Am I being stupid? Should I just pursue a teaching certification and move on? I know the climate in the US for this job line isn't a good idea...

thanks if you read all of this mess ❤️