Would you recommend this field to others? Why or why not?
Ask A Biologist Monday 2/5/24
Answers from Biologists:
Yes, but it will be different from what you initially think. Having a safety net/no obligations is helpful.
I’m always brutally honest about the reality of this field when people ask me.
If you can fund your life by your parent’s money, yeah sure why not. Otherwise, no
I’d make sure they’re aware it’s not all animal cuddling and easy times.
Yes. Honestly easily yes. I love my life so much. It’s not all toxicity and poverty, really.
As a primary parent, no. As a mom, no and there’s no support. Young and childfree, it’s a grand adventure.
If they are interested but have an honest talk about what it is vs. what they think it is.
100% there’s no perfect job, but there are moments of this work that get very close.
Yes, if you have a financial support system to supplement instability in early career.
No. After 13 years of seasonal jobs, financial instability, challenges in finding permanent positions, nope.
Yes but I admit I got really lucky and it can be a very difficult field to work in.
I would if it’s their passion. But also have them know they’ll never be rich or pain/stress free.
Yes: Incredible adventures and experiences. No: I’m so poor.
No if you’re going to be the main income for a household. This career does not pay well.
As a career, yes. As a career change, no. The pay and exploitation is hard enough as 18 yrs old.
No. Very limited number of full time, stable, well paying jobs and the sacrifices you make to be successful.
I would only recommend this to people who are truly passionate about it. It’s bitter work.
Not any more. The realities of the job are not what I thought going in.
Yes, depending on the person.
No, I can’t justify recommending this career to anyone at this point.
Yes, but be flexible. Biology is a broad field with a lot of different specializations.
It’s not always holding animals and most of it is not glamorous. You’ve gotta really have that passion.
No. Do volunteer work if you’re passionate. Otherwise get a stable, well-paying career.
Yes, only if you’re fully aware of what you’re signing up for. It can be rewarding.
Only if you’re willing to do something you absolutely love at the cost of pay and toxicity.
Yes with caveats. It’s fun but the job hunt can be brutal.
Yes. It’s a great way to travel the country and meet incredible people while working for the environment.
I always tell people it’s not as cool as it seems.
Yes with the caveat that it’s a broad, broad field and some flexibility will likely be required.
No I would. I fully expected poor pay but not such poor opportunities and toxic culture.
I will not let my daughters even consider working in this field. They deserve better.
Yes but not if you want to be rich and famous.
Yes but with a serious dose of reality. It’s not all sparkles and rainbows.
Yes but I’m very upfront and honest. I think this field needs a different perspective.
Yes if you have disposable income and connections already in the field.
Only for those individuals that are really driven. It’s hard to have a “normal” life as a bio.
It’s very rewarding and exhausting work-recommend it if you are passionate with healthy boundaries.
No-if you can be happy doing something else that gives you stable income, do that instead.
