Answers from the Experts

Career Choice for VS Interested in Animals and Studying Plants "I'm at a cross roads. Since, I was eight, I knew that I wanted to work with the animals, study plants for healing and herbs, and travel the world. I also knew that I wanted to be able to speak several languages. As I got older, I thought the closest college course to attain any of the above was zoology. The botany part I had to omit because I was not aware that one could design their own major. Now, I don't know whether I want to be a translator for a while in be a language major in college, only to go to a special liberal environmental college like Northland University to get degrees that embrace my thirst for helping/ studying animals and plant life. I'd much appreciate any advice you have to offer." Responses were sent from: Johns Hopkins University, Post University, and Union College. Member Institution and Association Answers:

From Johns Hopkins University: The biology department here at Hopkins offers a wide variety of courses and research opportunities that would touch on all the aspects of academia that you mentioned in your question. We do not have individual biology majors like zoology or botany, but just one broad major. Biology here at Hopkins is one of the top in the nation, and this would therefore lead to a lot more options and flexibility in a career choice. You would have several opportunities available to tailor your specific interests and future career plans. Stacy C. Hernandez Office of Undergraduate Admissions Johns Hopkins University 140 Garland Hall/3400 N. Charles St. Baltimore, MD 21218-2683 410.516.7032 (v) Stacy.Hernandez@jhu.edu http://apply.jhu.edu

From Post University: Common career options for my students that study animals and plants include veterinarians, horticulturists, wildlife biologists, naturalists/wardens/resource managers, biodiversity surveyors/monitors and others in health care, education, and research positions. Students majoring in biology or environmental science/studies have other career options not often thought of. There are opportunities to work with companies that offer consulting services to civil engineers and land-use developers. Additionally, many non-profit organizations seek zoologists and botanists to work as conservation scientists, field-work surveyors, public outreach staff, and database managers. Federal and state government agencies and even local municipalities employ graduates as park rangers, biological technicians, environmental analysts, and enforcement/ review agents. Students graduating from Post University have found jobs in several of these areas. Dr. Frank J. Dirrigl Biology & Environmental Programs, Post University Waterbury, Connecticut Admissions Contact: Will Johnson Post University WJohnson@Post.EDU

From Union College: With all of your interests, science languages, travel, I suggest looking at a liberal arts college that will offer strengths and courses in all those areas. Students often think they have to find a college that fits their interests to a “T”. Often, they change their minds. Keep your options open and explore! Dianne Crozier Union College Schenectady, New York crozierd@union.edu 518-388-6112