Careers and experience are linked
In a job posting, the first requirement many employers list is possession of a Bachelor's degree. This is because employers value the knowlege and skills accuumulated along the way to the degree.
Zoology degree requirements provide both the analytical skills and breadth of subject matter necessary for success in many diverse work environments, including research, industry, medicine, dentistry, biotechnology, veterinary science, wildlife conservation, government, zoological parks, aquaria and teaching. A broad range of career opportunities is available in each of these work environments.
For an employer, the applicant's possession of a Bachelor's degree is only the first criterion to consider for a job applicant. It is not enough to obtain that job. What sets one applicant apart from another is the applicant's work-related experience. Successful job applicants have skills which they gained from work experience:
- Hands-on skills include those applicable to any work environment (e.g. filing, word processing, telephone skills) as well as the skills specific to that workplace (e.g. data collecting, behavior observation, operating gas chromatograph).
- “Soft skills,” such as oral and written communication skills or an ability to work with others and adjust to their needs, are extremely important.
Now what?
Now that you know that landing a job requires a combination of knowledge and skills, how do you proceed?
The first step is to gather information on the options:
- Career Exploration: learn what skills and knowledge are essential for the careers that interest you.
- There are several ways to gain work-related skills while you are a student.