CAREER PATHS
Choosing a career is tricky business. But it doesn't have to be tricky to learn about your path to a career. Here we learn about a few careers you may be interested in and how you could get there. We also have a Case Studies section where you can learn more about previous participants and expedition leaders because we know that the conventional/direct route isn't always the way.
SCIENTIFIC RESEARCHER (BIOLOGY)
It is recommended that you start early (as early as high school) and pursue scientific and environmental subjects as much as possible. A biology or scientific degree is considered essential and volunteering/expeditions is a great foot in the door. Unpaid work and shadowing other biologists is also a great initiative to get into this role. A great path guide can be found here.
EXPEDITION/VOLUNTEERING COORDINATOR
While other careers on this page typically have a conventional route, an expedition/volunteering coordinator doesn't necessarily. Most recommend that you get an undergraduate degree in anything from Business Studies to Social Sciences, but a degree isn't necessarily the most important part of this role and isn't always needed. What is needed is experience: volunteer and take part in expeditions as much as you are able to deepen your understanding as to what is needed to organise such events. Some universities and colleges even run courses on Volunteer Management. Although a UK resource, this website is good for more info.
MARINE BIOLOGY
As this is a competitive line of work, a relevant degree is considered essential. The majority of marine biologists study Marine Biology or Oceanography at university, or complete a Masters in Marine Biology after another scientific undergraduate degree. Most Marine Biologists recommend getting PADI qualified early and gaining experience volunteering and doing unpaid work in this area. To find out more about this field of work and what you can do in it, click here.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANT
Environmental Consultants (and other office-based environmental careers) recommend a 'relevant degree'. This would usually be an Environmental or Business degree for this area of work, and volunteering/going on expeditions and/or a passion for the environment is as essential. Many start off as 'Environmental Trainees' in government roles but there are additional routes. Learn more here.
FIELD PHOTOGRAPHER
Photography is everywhere, and very competitive. However, field and nature photography is increasingly popular and accessible. Many people nowadays get a degree in photography to pursue this career, but you could also get an environmental degree and then take an extended course in photography. The most important thing for this type of career is building a strong portfolio. For info on generic photography careers, click here.
