Sara Hendrickson
Degree: Bachelor of Science
Major: Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering
Years in the Field: 7
Current Job Title: Doctoral Student/Graduate Research Assistant
Organization: Harvard School of Public Health
How did you find this job?
I applied to several doctoral programs. Harvard's research was most in-line with my interests, so that's where I decided to go.
Please describe your job:
I am in the first phase of my doctoral studies, so I mostly attend classes and do homework. I also do some research-related work but will get into that more once my coursework is completed. I also often attend seminars on new research findings in the field.
What from your undergraduate educational experience was most helpful in preparing you for this career?
Since I am still a student, I would everything from my undergraduate experience was helpful. More specifically, though, I would say having participated in the Undergraduate Research Opportunities program and having been employed as an Undergraduate Research Assistant gave me excellent experience for my future graduate research. Also, the rigor of an engineering degree has helped me greatly to feel confident in my academic abilities.
I think a misconception is that if you have an engineering degree that you have to be an engineer - I'm clearly an exception to that rule. I've been surprised by how well my degree has been received by those outside of the engineering world. They recognize and respect the fact that engineering coursework is challenging.
Don't shy away from opportunities. Realize there are many interesting paths to be taken. I never would have expected my career/education would take the route it did, but I'm very happy it did nonetheless. I think my willingness to try new things and leave my comfort zone is a main reason, so I would recommend students look beyond the obvious when making choices both while in school and afterward.