What Can You Do With A Biology Major?

Most students immediately associate biology degrees with medical school. But what if you don’t want to be a doctor? There are still many career options available to you.

For example, if you love both the arts and sciences, you could combine your passions into working with medical illustrations. Or maybe you love animals – you could double major with zoology and become a zookeeper. You could also become a marine biologist or a trainer. There are lots of unique career paths.

Do some research! All it takes is a simple Google search to learn what jobs people with your degree hold. Or, you can come in to our office to talk with a Career Counselor. They’ll be able to tell you more and even help get you connected with companies in your field. You can try a Job Shadow or Day in the Field program, where you have the opportunity to follow someone in the field you’re looking at to see what their daily work experience is really like. Check out our services at lssaa.wisc.edu/careers.

Aquatic Biologists, Inc. is one of many companies that hire biology majors. The work involves treatment with aquatic herbicides and algaecides to control nuisance weeds and algae in ponds, chemical applications on lakes for invasive species, installing aeration systems and fountains to improve water quality, installing aquatic plants for habitat, aesthetics, and nutrient adsorption, and performing fish quantity surveys.

Northeast Wisconsin Territory Manager Paul Leisten explains, “We are usually working out in the field for 4 to 6 days a week and the environment is always new and changing.” It’s a great alternative to a desk job, or to working in a laboratory.

But if laboratories are more in your field of interest, there are opportunities for biology majors.

Many graduates work in a research laboratory at a university or another institution, often while seeking a higher degree. A masters or doctoral degree can enable students to continue research work in a field of choice, or become a professor. The laboratory work while in school is a resume booster and helps students gain experience. Check with your TAs and professors to see if they know of any research work you could get involved in.

Idella Yamben, a scientific recruiter at Kelly Scientific Resources, advises, “Network! You are a whole person with unique capabilities and interests. All types of people are welcome in science and you would be surprised the opportunities that exist for the right skill set. You don't have to just be at the bench or be a teacher! However, making those transitions can be difficult if you are not knowledgeable about companies and skills. Your best way to help you stand out is by networking.”

Yamben also recommends exploring a wide variety of disciplines. “The most competitive applicants have a cross section of skills including biology, chemistry, business, training/teaching, and social/soft skills. If you can diversify your experiences in school (including research and internships) you will likely have more opportunities come your way once you graduate.”

There are many different options open for students with a biology major. You’re not stuck with going to medical school. You can get a job after graduation, without any higher education. Check out your options and find a career path that you love!

Being a Badger Has its Perks

Being affiliated with a university like UW-Madison has its advantages. One big advantage is using your Badger status to make connections with experienced alumni to gain valuable information about career paths and opportunities. Some of these contacts happen naturally as you attend events as a student. But you can be even more proactive in your approach to take control of your own career.

Here are just some of the ways to connect with alumni –

1. Search the Alumni Directory through the Badger Career Network

Our alumni have an alumni profile in our directory. They decide what information to make public, which may include email address, phone number, business address, job title and company. Students have access to this service, and can search the 30,000+ alumni who tagged themselves as a Badger Career Network participant. Visit http://www.uwalumni.com/studentcareer.aspx to register as a current student and start searching!

2. Join our Wisconsin Alumni Association LinkedIn Group

As a student, we welcome you to join LinkedIn and our group! LinkedIn is a great resource for those who are looking to connect with professionals in their industry or career of interest. Our group is open only to UW-Madison students and grads so you can more easily find people you’d like to contact. Here's the link to join the group: http://www.linkedin.com/e/gis/40224/0F2FEB0AA671

3. Stay connected with your career office

Your career office on campus organizes dozens of events each year, including informational sessions, career fairs and networking events — all of which feature or include alumni from UW-Madison. Attend as many of these great events as possible to start building your network.

Start using your Badger status today — check out www.uwalumni.com.

Gina Evans is the Career Development Specialist for the Wisconsin Alumni Association

In the Middle of a Job Search? Networking Pays Off!

Is hunting for a job really all about who you know? No, not all the time, but it sure does help.

In my role as a sourcing & diversity specialist, I often find myself stressing to job seekers how important it is to make appropriate connections that will assist in their job search. If you’re searching, I’d typically advise that, if you’re not already a member, it’s a good idea to join networks like LinkedIn or Facebook. Look for pages or groups devoted to the companies you’re interested in working with. On American Family’s LinkedIn and Facebook pages, I spend much of my time sharing information about our company, culture, position types, tasks/qualifications and other nice-to-know stuff, such as benefits and flexible work schedules.

So, you’ve done your research via social media. Will that help you get a job? Obviously, your skills and qualifications for the role need to be a good match, as well as your cultural fit with the organization and company values. Beyond that, who lands the ever-so-desired offer? Now, more than ever, landing an interview and then an offer is a competitive business. It’s a time when a job posting can produce upwards of 100 to 200 applicants within a few days or a week (not all qualified, of course). The way to rise to the top is NETWORKING. Know your skills and know how to network. I’ve witnessed this more times than I can count -- it really does produce job offers.

So, how does networking really work? The key to networking is finding the right people to connect with and then sharing some brief information about who you are, what you can do and what your interests are, in hopes that you can create a memorable impression. Finding commonalities with people will help them remember you and even cause them to recommend you to someone else – and that someone else may be just the person you need to know. I see this happen every day as I’m making connections for job seekers with our recruiters (staffing specialists), who in turn work with our managers, who hire for positions within the company. I’ve seen several job offers extended and accepted as a result of connections made through our LinkedIn Careers group and inquiries over the American Family Careers Facebook page, for example.

I know there are so many variables that come into play regarding career opportunities, from the type of position you want, whether or not you’d like to relocate, and most importantly, how the timing works out. Networking can help you spread the word about the type of work you want, where and when. And you never really know when it might pay off for you.

Here are a few of my favorite networking tips. When having a conversation with someone:
• Be brief. Avoid too much small talk and make your points.
• Set an agenda for your conversation, if only for yourself. You’ll stay on point.
• Keep yourself in front of your connections. Don’t forget to thank people for meeting with you.
• Search online groups or discussions to find industry professionals you might meet.
• Pay it forward – help others and they will help you.

Lisa Beauclaire is a sourcing and diversity specialist with American Family Insurance who also uses social media extensively to connect with potential job candidates. American Family is a Fortune 500 company specializing in property, casualty and life insurance with operations in 19 states. Connect with AmFam via Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, and The Family Room Career Blog.

Announcing the L&S Career Services Winter Break Job Shadow Program for January 2012!

No plans for winter break?

Looking to explore your career interests and goals?

Wanting to learn more about, and observe, various types of job functions at an employer?

Wanting to build a network with professionals and learn about their career backgrounds and interests?

Interested in possible internship and job opportunities at an employer?

If you have these questions and more, then consider doing a job shadow experience!

You are invited to participate in the Letters and Science Career Services Winter Break 2012 Job Shadow program. Job shadowing will help you with your career exploration, goals and options. This fantastic and unique opportunity will engage and connect you with seasoned professionals and often UW-Madison alumni in many different career paths and from a variety of educational backgrounds.

You may be visiting various offices, conducting informational interviews with staff to learn about their career background, attending meetings and events, observing certain job functions of staff members, participating in an office activity or program, and also learning about potential internship and full-time opportunities. Typically, the job shadow day is a one-day experience, although there may be opportunities to participate for more than one day, based on the availability of the employer.

In summary, there are many key benefits that make the Job Shadow program one of our most successful programs that has attracted a few hundred students over the past two years. Some of the benefits for students and employers include:

Benefits of the Job Shadow Program for Employers

• Fosters and enhances an employer’s connection among the well-rounded and talented students in the College of Letters &Science.

• Provides an opportunity for staff members at an employer to be a resource about their career paths and share insights and a snapshot of what their typical job is like.

• Enables early identification of potential candidates for internships and full-time positions.

Benefits of the Job Shadow Program for Students

• Students get a better sense of a typical day at the organization, as well as certain job functions and tasks.

• Students have a chance to develop a professional network of individuals.

• Students acquire an understanding of the organizational culture and professional etiquette at an employer.

• Students learn about the various types of internship and career opportunities available.

The Job Shadow program will occur between January 5 and 20, 2012, during time frames that mutually work for the host employer and the student. Participating employers are from around the U.S. and Wisconsin, and represent a variety of career interests and sectors. Organizations include: American Field Service (AFS), Brunswick Group LLC, Coyote Logistics, Direct Supply, Gateway Middle School, Google, GRAEF, Her Exchange, Kohl’s, LaSalle Investment Management, Madison No Fear Dentistry, Milwaukee Public Library, Starcom Mediavest Group, Summit Commercial Finance Group, and Teach for America.

Student testimonials from past Job Shadow programs include:

“I shadowed at Starcom and it was a wonderful experience. I learned so much about a career I didn't even know existed. The person I shadowed was so down to earth (a recent Wisconsin grad). She introduced me to friends who had different positions and responsibilities, so I had a conceptual as well as physical tour of the company. I don't know how the shadow could have gone smoother or been more beneficial. I loved how they kept two shadowers together, so it was a little less intimidating and easier to keep conversation flowing. From this experience, I keep think­ing how beneficial more job shadows would have been. I guess it's never too late. Thank you again for providing this exceptional learning experience.”

“The program was really helpful because I am graduating in just a few short months and it gave me a glimpse into possible future careers.”

“I enjoyed this program because it gave me a chance to get a good look at the duties and responsibilities from professionals. I received direct feedback about their jobs and valuable advice. I thoroughly benefited from my job shadow at Direct Supply in Milwaukee. They were very welcoming and informative.

If you are interested in participating in the Winter Break 2012 Job Shadow program, and would like more information, including detailed descriptions of the opportunities available at the employers, please contact Greg Iaccarino, Career and Internship Advisor, at gjiaccar@wisc.edu to fill out an interest survey for placement within the program.

Straight from the employers: Tips on standing out

The October 2011 issue of The Tapestry (Multicultural Student Center Newsletter), written by Rachel Kuo, had a great article with advice on how to stand out to an employer. Read on to get some tips directly from the mouths of recruiters.

Know how to communicate your strengths and experience.

“Make a strong first impression and communicate your values by explaining your choices and processes. It’s impressive when you can walk people through your decisions.” - Paul Taylor, Cooper Bussman

“We look for energy, leadership, outgoing personalities, communication skills and adaptability in potential employees. Don’t be afraid to show yourself off in an interview by telling us your stories of success.” –Kathy Backstrom, Target

Get involved as much as possible.

“Volunteer and service experiences provide graduates with transferrable skill sets in time management, team leadership, data collection, communications and critical thinking.” - Kobena Marcus Collins, CityYear

“You can make yourself more competitive for internships by taking on leadership roles in classroom projects or student organizations.” -Kathy Backstrom, Target

Research the company.

“Tailor your resume for the specific job you’re applying for and be prepared for questions that aren’t just technical-based.” -Joel Harmon, Cargill

Academics are just as important as work experience.

“The key pieces to success are to keep your grades up while also gaining working and leadership experience.” - Ya Yang, General Mills

“Internships are a great way to stand out in the job market, and they provide a real opportunity to combine course work with real job applications.”


Check out some photos of students who took advantage of the networking event prior to the Multicultural Career and Internship Fair last month.




Source:
Kuo, Rachel. "Employers Give Some Tips on How to Stand out as a Potential Candidate." Tapestry (Oct. 2011): 5. http://msc.wisc.edu/tapestry/TapestryOctober2011.pdf

To stay updated on job, volunteer and internship opportunities, follow @UWMulticultural on Twitter or like "UW-Madison Multicultural Student Center" on Facebook.

Professional Development- What is that?

You may have heard the words "professional development" as a way to build your skills and resume for your future career. Attending professional conferences is one form of professional development. Read on to hear about Lauren Foley's experience as an undergraduate student who recently attended her first professional conference.

On October 21st and 22nd I had the privilege of attending the Wisconsin College Personnel Association (WCPA) Conference in the Wisconsin Dells to participate in the Student Affairs 101 portion for undergraduates. This was my first time attending a professional conference, and I was very excited and interested to learn more about the student affairs field and network with other undergraduates, graduates and professionals.

Right from the start I was introduced to undergraduate students from every University of Wisconsin college, where we participated and listened to seasoned professionals in smaller workshops. We were able to attend two of the three workshops on Student Development Theory, Resume Writing, and Introduction to Student Affairs. Working within career services, I opted for the Student Development Theory and Intro to Student Affairs. Paul Shepherd, a professional from UW-River Falls, gave us a glimpse into Student Development Theory, and how it relates to Student Affairs. He introduced us to this topic because it is a core part to curriculums of Student Affairs graduate programs. I really enjoyed his workshop because as a future graduate student, I was able to see a glimpse of what one of the courses would be like.

The Intro to Student Affairs workshop I attended was led by Scott Seyforth, an educator from UW-Whitewater, and PhD student at UW-Madison. Right away he and I connected with our love of the Badgers and all things football, as well as all things Student Affairs. The best element of this workshop was realizing that within a university, Student Affairs covers so many different areas and aspects of a University.

Thinking about my own career path, although I have a general direction I am headed, I realize that I have so many options it’s almost overwhelming! During and after the workshops, we had chances to interact and network with other undergraduates and talk about their student affairs experiences. Most of them were from Residence Life, who really influence freshman and other students living in the residence halls. After hearing more about it, I became really interested in this area, and I was sparked to look into possible residence life opportunities for internships and graduate assistant positions in graduate school.

Later in the conference I was able to meet additional professionals and hear about their background. I loved learning where they earned their undergraduate and graduate degrees. Each person I met with had a really different path and interesting story for how they stumbled into Student Affairs, and every one of them loves what they do. Everyone I met with at the conference and everyone I continue to meet in Student Affairs has a passion for bettering their university, and influencing student’s lives in a positive way, whether that is in Residence Life programs or where I work, as a Peer Advisor helping students with resumes and career advice. This positive energy surrounding Student Affairs has really encouraged me to continue my journey towards finishing my undergraduate degree and pursuing graduate school in the field.

I intend to take part in any other professional development opportunity available to me, as I suggest any student should. You can learn a lot, and build relationships with others in the field, which can prove very beneficial to me now and in the future.

Lauren Foley is a Junior at UW Wisconsin- Madison studying English with certificates in Educational Policy & Integrated Liberal Studies

Recap of Day in the Field Visit to Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

L&S CAREER SERVICES STUDENTS AND STAFF ON THE ROOFTOP PATIO OF MILWAUKEE JOURNAL SENTINEL'S DOWNTOWN LOCATION

On a warm fall day on October 14th, a group of 9 students and 3 Career Services staff members took a Day in the Field Trip to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. This was one of the best Day in the Field programs that occurred, in which there were many opportunities for the students to meet with all levels of staff members to learn about the most current trends in journalism, communications and digital media, and how the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel is positioning itself to best meet these trends.


Highlights of the visit included a tour of all 6 floors of the historic downtown Milwaukee location, including a trip back in time to the old printing press in the basement that was used for many decades. Visits to the newsroom, marketing/advertising departments, circulation section, and the publisher/editor gave the students an excellent sense of the inner workings of one of Wisconsin’s major media sources. The Journal Sentinel boasts a strong investigative reporting focus, with some of their reporters recently receiving Pulitzer Prizes for their work.

Perhaps the finest part of the experience were the thorough speed networking sessions that the students had with all of the executives of the organization and newer employees. These sessions enabled each student to have one-on-one networking and informational interview time. Students were personally invited to submit their resumes for anticipated future internships and career openings at the paper.

Student testimonials from the trip, which were drawn from student evaluations about their experience include:

1.) The field trip today was excellent because students got a more in-depth feel of working at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Meeting the staff one on one was very helpful because they offered practical, hands-on advice about getting started on job search and finding opportunities. My favorite part was by far sitting with executives also one on one and learning about the different career paths available at the newspaper. Those opportunities are rare and I am happy I was able to participate.


2.) The trip was a rewarding experience because it gave me a glimpse into the life in a newsroom. It was nice talking to people who worked there because it gave me insight into what I need to do to establish a career in communications and/or journalism.


3.) I really enjoyed being able to meet with the managing editor and publisher. I'm in this constant worry about finding a job and they gave me advice that the future of a journalist is really not just being a reporter but being someone who knows about the technological aspects of everything; how to make and manage a website, social media and search engine optimization. That was great to hear since we learn so much technology in the journalism school and there are some moments when I wonder if they will actually come into play again.



Interested in more experiential opportunities with the Journal Sentinel? Please stay tuned for more information about our Winter Break Job Shadow program that will soon be on the L&S Career Services website http://www.lssaa.wisc.edu/careers

SPEED NETWORKING SESSIONS OF STUDENTS AND MILWAUKEE JOURNAL SENTINEL STAFF MEMBERS (BELOW)