10 questions I asked my mentor about my future career- Marine Biologist/ Specialist
1. Do you believe going into the career field of animals is a good choice?
Answer: Yes, there are plenty of opportunities in the field.
2. What do you think I can do to get closer to my career goal of dealing with animals or more importantly marine animals?
Answer: You should target more closely to the specific job, find someone that actually does that job and get their perspective. What is the up side to the job and what is the down side?
3. Do you think becoming a marine biologist/ marine specialist trainer will be somewhat difficult?
Answer: It will be extremely difficult because plenty of people like the idea of that job, and a lot of jobs in that field are decreasing- like Sea World will more than likely be shut down in 10-15 years.
4. What is a downfall of being in the animal field?
Answer: The pay is not generally high even when you have similar skills and physically taxing experience
5. What do you like about dealing with animals?
Answer: Since dogs are helpless animals and can't help themselves, its rewarding to be a self advocate for them.
6. Do you think I should go ahead and get my masters degree while I'm already in college(for my major of course)?
Answer: You should only do that if it helps you towards your career goals. That's why you should find someone with the job you want, it should be valuable.
7. Do you feel the marine science field is open/ big enough for jobs (for myself)?
Answer: I think its a very competitive field and you must be on your A game.
8. If you dealt with marine animals what position would you want to have?
Answer: I wouldn't mind being the head vet at the Georgia Aquarium because it would be a fun and interesting job.
9. Do you feel that studying the ocean and its animals are too broad and difficult?
Answer: I feel it is very important because we still don't know what is exactly out there. There could also be something in the oceans that could cure people of diseases/ illness.
10. Do you have any additional tips for me, considering you have your career already?
Answer: Don't quit. Even if it's hard or time consuming don't let anyone else talk you down and don't doubt yourself or you will never get there.
Reflection: I feel that this interview opened my eyes to just how challenging my career field can be, and instead of sitting back hoping it will happen, I will have to work really hard and put myself out there. This also made me think twice about where I go to college at. Although I want to attend UGA, maybe FAU is a better place for my educational needs.
