Any 'science' jobs for undergraduates

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the potential job opportunities for undergraduate students in the science field, particularly for those who need to support themselves while continuing their education. Participants explore various entry-level positions and the feasibility of obtaining work without a bachelor's degree.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about available full-time science jobs for undergraduates, expressing concern about needing to support themselves while studying at night.
  • Another participant suggests that a position as a lab tech or assistant might not involve significant scientific work, comparing it to basic tasks like dishwashing.
  • A different participant reflects on the potential motivational benefits of working in a scientific environment, even if the job is not directly related to science.
  • It is noted that any job experience, including non-science roles, may be viewed positively by employers in the science field.
  • Several suggestions are made for finding job opportunities, including checking with student employment offices, networking with professors, and looking into temp agencies that specialize in science and technology placements.
  • One participant emphasizes that while the jobs may not be ideal, they can provide valuable work experience and help establish connections in the field.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that while there are entry-level positions available, the nature of the work may not always align with scientific tasks. There is no consensus on the best approach to securing a job or the value of non-science work experience.

Contextual Notes

Some limitations in the discussion include the lack of specific job market information and the varying definitions of what constitutes "science work." The effectiveness of different job search strategies remains unresolved.

Who May Find This Useful

Undergraduate students in science fields seeking employment opportunities, individuals exploring entry-level positions in scientific environments, and those interested in balancing work with academic commitments.

torquemada
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Hey guys,

I'm currently doing undergrad studies in biology, and I live with my folks. The thing is, I need to move out and live on my own, because the situation is insufferable and gets worse every day. I was wondering if there is anything in any sort of science area that I can get full time work in, however basic, while I go to school at night, so I can support myself and live on my own? Or do I need to at least have a bachelor's in said science field to get any sort of basic science job, and if I want to work full time now I'm going to have to settle for something outside the realm of science? Any ideas/links/advice is truly appreciated r! Thanks so much in advance :)
 
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Lab Tech/Assistant, although, I'm not sure you would be doing anything which consititutes science work. Your duties would probably have more in common with a restaurant dish washer.
 
Ok that sounds like a good start - thanks for the reply :) - i wonder though if simply being in that environment would be uplifting and motivating, being surrounded by science taking place. Surely for someone interested in science it's the lesser of two evils compared with, say, for example, full-time at starbucks? :D
 
Indeed, although a lab may look fondly at your hypothetical starbucks work experience during the selection process.

Any job, would be a good job if you have no work experience. As they say, beggars can't be choosers etc.. etc..
 
- check the student employment office as they often will be aware of any posted local positions and can help you establish some contacts
- ask around your department and associated departments (start with your own professors)
- if you're technically savvy, some departments will hire IT staff to assist with maintaining their networks
- high school outreach programs are sometimes run by lab techs
 
Not sure where you are, but if you have temp agencies there, try them - especially the ones that specialize in science/tech. They place a lot of lab techs. They aren't great jobs but like everyone said, they give fantastic work experience, and you get your foot in the door somewhere.

Good luck!
 

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