So you want to become a scientist?
Congrats on deciding to better the world through becoming a scientist. There are numerous opportunities to make a difference in a wide selection of fields that have shaped life as we know it.
Some of you might be too young to remember when the computer first came out, or the internet, or maybe you remember it as if it were yesterday. Smartphones changed the day to day world significantly. Then there are the less known inventions, some even occurring by mistake. Penicillin was a more famous example.
These inventions and many more were possible because of the scientists that made them happen. There is not always a clear path to become a scientist, and there are multiple ways to get there. Some scientists, especially in the earlier days, simply experimented with everyday objects and called themselves scientists or inventors. Others, especially in modern days had to work tirelessly to become a scientist (although both types are equally valuable).
The steps outlined below are simply one method to become a scientist, but there are other pathways.
- Pick a Scientific Field
- Get an Education
- Get Work Experience
- Get the Job of Your Dreams
- Welcome to the Science Profession
Pick a Scientific Field: Become a Scientist Step 1
There are many scientific fields to choose from, and each offers different benefits and demands.
In a biological field, you will find opportunities to become a plant breeder or a molecular biologist, among many others. In engineering, you will find opportunities to become a mechanical or electrical engineer. In a chemical field, you will find opportunities to become a chemist.
These are just a few options, and there are many more. There are constant demands in various fields and multiple industries to choose from. The world of science is dynamic and ever changing, as are its needs.
It may be difficult to choose a field of focus initially, and that’s understandable as there are so many options. If you are unsure which field best meet your interests, then job shadowing or a discussion with someone in the field may be a great option. Don’t know of anyone? Find someone through LinkedIn. In the world of social media, it is much easier to find people that work in your dream job.
You can also shift your field of focus if you choose to do so later in your career. Some shifts will be easy, while others will be more difficult, depending on the shift you are considering. For instance, shifting from a biology field to one in engineering may be difficult, while shifting from one focus in biology to another will likely be much easier.
Get an Education: Step 2
You may decide to pursue an education while you’re still pondering your scientific field of choice, which is often helpful. A liberal arts education often affords a few electives, which can be a great way to get exposure into different fields of study.
Most scientific fields require a bachelor’s degree at a minimum (such as a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts). Others may require a master’s degree, or even a Ph.D. Some professions might allow an associate degree, or a high school diploma alone, but your options may be more limited.
A 4-year degree or beyond may not be necessary, depending on the kind of scientist you want to become, but be sure to ask around or do some research online if you are determined to work in a particular profession.
Get Work Experience: Step 3
You’ve finally gotten the education and you’ve picked out a scientific field, congratulations! Now it’s time for the hard part- to get a job and officially become a scientist.
Scientific work can be quite competitive and believe it or not, an education doesn’t immediately make you ready for the work. The best way you can prepare yourself is by getting more exposure through internships, volunteering or weekend/side work. The more relevant experience you can add to your resume, the better.
There are alternative work options besides a full-time job. In fact, many professionals these days get their start as temporary employees. Larger companies especially favor this option. It gives them a chance to try you out first, and you get the opportunity to do the same. Think of it like dating. If it doesn’t work out there are always other opportunities.
If you are finding difficulty in getting a job right away, consider looking into a temporary agency that places people in scientific disciplines. Most importantly, be flexible! You may not get the position of your dreams right away, but you can certainly work your way up to it. Experience is gold- treat it as such!
Another key point: networking. Hiring managers often prefer to hire someone they know, rather than someone they happen to find in the stack of applications on their desk. Referrals are powerful- use them to your advantage! Networking can give you the critical edge to getting your career started, or even advancing to the next level. Do not underestimate the value of networking.
Get the Job of Your Dreams and Become a Scientist: Step 4
You’ve done it- got the work experience and worked your butt off, now it’s time to be more strategic. Hopefully when you were networking or job shadowing, you were asking valuable questions about how people got into the roles they did. If you didn’t, don’t despair, but it’s time for more networking, research or both.
If you’re like most people, you may not have had a precise role in mind once you entered the workforce, but now that you’ve had time to experience the field, you should at least have some ideas about what works for you and what doesn’t.
You’ll want to revisit your career progress every so often and adjust as you grow and develop. You may also discover that your values have changed over time. There’s nothing wrong with that. In fact, it’s quite normal. Your desires and dreams may reshape themselves to become something entirely different.
The more specific about the what you want to achieve, the more achievable it becomes. Create a dream board, jot some ideas down or have a conversation with someone. There’s nothing wrong with not knowing what you want, but if you ever hope to achieve it then you first need to find out what it is!
Welcome to the Science Profession
Developing a successful career takes passion and dedication. It truly is a lifelong pursuit and the value you get out of it is directly proportional to the work you put into it. Becoming a scientist is no easy pursuit, but if it is your dream then I promise it’s worth it.
Thanks for reading. Please let me know if you have any questions by commenting below or sending me a message on the contact page- I’d be happy to help you on your journey. And if you think this can help someone else you know- please share!
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