Reply #63: Same degrees, but a different sub-field.

[GoCubsGo]

I would have gotten the same degrees, but I would have taken them in a slightly different direction. Instead of research, I would have gone into resource management. I also would have chosen a smaller school to get my M.S., and chosen a major professor that was actually interested in my professional development, rather than just having another grunt to do her work for her. I pursued what I was most interested in, with little thought about employment prospects. I was pretty naive back then.

My advice to a young person: Find out what you love, do it, but don't get too specialized. People won't give you credit for the other things you know outside of your narrow focus. And, be careful about who you choose as a mentor. That big shot you want to work under might not give two shits and a holler about you. That goes not just for learning the ropes of your field, but also for building networks. If your adviser doesn't care enough to nurture your education, they won't care enough to connect you with others in your field who will help you find jobs, advance your education, or connect you with anyone else who might benefit you and your work.