Graduate Profile - Environmental Science
Name: Mark Alcorn
Degree Awarded (Majors if appropriate): Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science. Major: Hydrogeology
Position Gained: Hydrological Assessment Officer
Organisation: Dept. Water Land Biodiversity Conservation
Commencement Date: 16th Feb 05
Could you give us a description of what your position involves or will involve?
Using various modelling platforms, including GIS packages, to assess the water resources of catchments in the Eastern Mount Lofty Ranges.
With your experiences in securing employment what advice would you give to students who are in their first, second, and final year of study?
Getting some work experience of any form is probably the best way to decide firstly if you really want to work in that field. I took a year off before my final year to work in my industry, and it helped to focus my studies and make more informed subject choices.
How did you go about finding graduate employment?
Joining the annual SA Govt. Graduate Recruitment Program is a great idea. It gives you multiple opportunities at finding a job. Also, having access to various jobs emails (GRADJOBS) is invaluable. It saves you much time in searching for positions. I would recommend getting these as early as possible in your degree so you can get some idea of what is out there. Write plenty of applications to get practice, not only in writing but it might get you some interview practice, and ultimately, feedback on your progress.
Can you briefly describe the application process relevant to your position?
What interview questions were you asked?
As above, the GRP closes around September each year. There were usually around ten interview questions. Some of these were the standard type questions e.g. Can you describe a situation where you had to deal with conflict in the workplace?, while others were more relevant to the position.
In your opinion, what factors enabled you to be successful in obtaining employment?
Having some experience in your chosen field will not only look good on your resume, but you will actually learn a lot more about the industry. This will show in the interview.
Do you have any further helpful hints for graduates?
Stay positive in your search for work. Don't let rejections set you back, I had a number before I finally found a suitable job.
Whilst studying for his degree, Mark undertook a Year in Industry Scholarship at ANSTO ( Australian Nuclear Science & Technology Organisation) in 2003 . He worked as an Environmental Monitoring Officer.
Could you give us a description of what your Year in Industry Scholarship has involved?
I have been part of a team that runs the Environmental Management Project at ANSTO. I have been responsible for the collection and analysis of various environmental media for radiological and chemical analysis.
What is a typical day like?
A typical day will usually involve a field trip to collect some water/soil/air samples from the local environment, and then preparing them back in the lab. Analysis is varied and can sometimes take days or even weeks to complete. In between sampling and analysis there are administrative duties such as result calculations and interpretation. Oh, and don't forget that any process in the lab requiring glassware means there are also plenty of dishes to be washed!
Why did you apply for this Year in Industry Scholarship?
Basically, I applied for this position because I felt that the current pattern of university offered little real experience. In terms of lab time and field time I believe uni is lacking. Also the experience gained from a solid year's work in a world-class research institute will be invaluable.
Can you briefly describe the application process relevant to your Scholarship?
Applications are available on line with the process being relatively short: Application, Phone interview, and selection.
The website is www.ansto.gov.au and go to vacancies
In your opinion, what factors enabled you to be successful in obtaining employment?
Applying for a position that is relevant to your studies is probably the most important thing. Also important is some laboratory experience, although not much is really needed. As the placement is in NSW a willingness to move away for a year is a must.
Many employers presenting employment information sessions have commented on the importance of students undertaking extra curricular activities during their time at university. Could you comment on this?
I was approaching my final year of uni and realised that I had not much to offer in terms of hands on experience to a prospective employer. So doing something like this is a great way to get in on the ground floor, to gain that valuable experience that employers are always looking for. If you go out of your way to seek out that experience I think it sends a very positive message to those who might employ you.
Do you have any further helpful hints for students?
Making the most of your time at uni (its only three-four years after all) might mean having to go out of your way to get more out of it. It is definitely worth doing a little bit more than just turning up for lectures.
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