Is environmental/marine science worth it? (details below)
Our take
The question posed by /u/DistinguishableBoy – is environmental/marine science “worth it?” – resonates deeply within our community. It’s a question born not of doubt in the intrinsic value of ocean stewardship, but of a very human desire for purpose, coupled with pragmatic concerns about career viability and personal timelines. Their journey, a shift from social media marketing to a yearning for connection with nature, highlights a growing trend: individuals seeking careers aligned with their values and a desire for impactful work. The anxieties surrounding age, education, and market demand are valid, and addressing them directly is crucial for anyone contemplating a similar transition. We see echoes of this sentiment in other corners of our platform, such as the opportunity outlined in Passionate about marine biology and electronics? Join our Ocean Tech team!, demonstrating the increasing intersection of ocean science and technology, and the potential for diverse skillsets within the field. Moreover, the work detailed in Record-breaking ocean drilling reveals why Japan's 2011 tsunami was so deadly underscores the critical and often unforeseen ways scientific investigation can inform disaster preparedness and mitigation, illustrating the real-world impact of environmental research.
The core of /u/DistinguishableBoy’s concern isn’t about the inherent appeal of the field, but about the feasibility of entry and long-term sustainability. The proposed plan of a diploma followed by a bachelor’s degree is a sensible, staged approach. Australia’s conservation and ecosystem management programs are generally well-regarded, and a degree from an accredited institution should indeed open doors not just within Australia, but internationally. The ability to work across borders is increasingly important in ocean science, given the interconnectedness of marine ecosystems and the global nature of challenges like climate change and pollution. While direct field work might not be the sole focus of every role, the demand for professionals with a strong foundation in environmental principles and data analysis remains robust. Sustaining oneself financially within the field requires a strategic approach, focusing on developing specialized skills – perhaps in areas like remote sensing, data modeling, or policy analysis – which are increasingly sought after. The exploration of “ocean therapy,” as presented in ocean Theraphy, while a distinct area, speaks to the broader recognition of the ocean’s profound impact on human well-being and opens potential avenues for related careers.
The perceived disadvantage of entering the field at 25 is largely a self-imposed one. While competition exists, the field desperately needs individuals with diverse backgrounds and life experiences. A mid-career transition, driven by a genuine passion, can be a significant asset. The maturity and focus gained through previous experiences often translate to a stronger work ethic and a clearer understanding of career goals. Furthermore, the rapid pace of technological innovation in ocean science means that there is a constant need for skilled professionals who can adapt and learn new techniques. The shift towards data-driven ocean management necessitates individuals proficient in data analysis, modeling, and communication – skills that may be transferable from other fields. The key is to leverage existing strengths and proactively address any knowledge gaps through targeted training and professional development.
Ultimately, the “worth” of environmental/marine science isn't a question with a simple yes or no answer. It’s a commitment – a commitment to understanding and protecting a vital resource, and a willingness to embrace the challenges and uncertainties that come with it. /u/DistinguishableBoy’s journey highlights the growing desire for meaningful work and the increasing recognition of the ocean’s importance in a changing world. The question we should be asking isn't whether this field is “worth it,” but rather, how can we best equip and support individuals like /u/DistinguishableBoy to contribute their unique talents to the crucial task of ocean stewardship? As technology continues to advance and our understanding of the ocean deepens, what new and unexpected career pathways will emerge, and how can we ensure equitable access to these opportunities for those seeking to answer the call of the sea?
Hello everyone! I am a 25 yo immigrant in Australia right now, and after a long and disapointing course in social media marketing which I found out not to be for me, I have decided to switch the trajectory of my life entirely. When I think about what I want to do with my life, I think about being in contact with nature, mostly in isolated places. I often times imagine myself in the middle of the ocean far away from any land, or in forests doing work there. In short, the more isolated and far from cities the work is, the more it seems to attract me. Moving from place to place wouldn't bother me too much since I've been doing that for a good chunk of my twenties anyways (and I love travelling!).
However, a quick reality check might be necessary, because I understand that no matter the career I try to pursue, you can't just work doing what you like all the time. From what I've searched online, not all environmental science jobs involve field work, and in the ones that do you don't do it all the time. Despite that, the field of environmetal/marine science attracts me a lot. My main worry is studying for it, because I've been away from any school subject for a long time, and I wasn't the best student in my school days either.
My favorite subjects in school were biology and geography, but that is not to say that I was good in them. Truth is, I was a terrible student, but not because I was dumb, I just didn't want to study at all. I never developed the habit of studying in my life, and my grades in high school were terrible because of that. Math, physics and chemestry were a nightmare, math being the one I liked most among those. But again, I just didn't like studying any of them, so I chose to play videogames instead. But now as an adult, I see myself wanting to pursue these careers but I'm scared that I wouldn't be able to keep up.
To top it all off there is the age problem. I understand most would say that 25 is still young, but if I take 5 years of my life just to study environmental science I would finish at 30 and be competing with fresh 24 year olds. Somehow thinking about that scares me, and I don't want to make the wrong decision at this point in my life, I just don't have the time to spare. I want to understand how the field of environmental/marine science is first before making the final decision. How is the market for it right now? Would an Australian degree allow me to travel to other places to work in the field? How difficult is it to sustain yourself with this career, and what paths can I take?
My plan is to study 1,5 years to get a diploma of conservation and ecosystem management, and then from there figure out if I really want to pursue this career. Moving to a bachelors in either environmental science or marine science which would take me 3 years to complete. I appreciate in advance for the replies, thank you!
[link] [comments]
Read on the original site
Open the publisher's page for the full experience