Carina Schutzenberger: The Journey to Landing Her Dream Job
We sat down to talk to Carina Schutzenberger, our former College Co-President (2022), about her life after College as an aquatic ecologist.
What have you been up to career-wise since graduation?
My post-graduation journey unfolded quickly, as I secured my job a few months before officially graduating. After a few weeks at home in Singapore, I transitioned into full-time work as an aquatic ecologist with SLR Consulting, a world-leading environmental consulting firm.
I have been fortunate to partake in some amazing trips around Western Australia with this role. My most cherished moments are those spent working in Western Australia's Pilbara region, monitoring the river systems. The team and I spend our days travelling in helicopters, enabling us to maximise the number of survey sites and explore areas inaccessible by conventional means due to their remote nature. The Pilbara has the most breathtaking landscapes, including some hidden gems within Karijini National Park. We conduct comprehensive environmental assessments, gather data on water quality, macroinvertebrate samples and fish species, and identify any invasive animals present. Collaborating closely with clients and engaging with traditional owners, who often join us in the field, has been particularly rewarding.
Tell us more about your current role at SLR Consulting.
The narrative that securing a job in ecology is challenging lingered throughout my academic journey, often stirring a sense of apprehension. However, landing this remarkable job and receiving positive feedback during the interview regarding my extensive fieldwork skills validated my capabilities and gave me a sense of encouragement and accomplishment.
During the initial few months, I had the chance to be part of SLR's Graduate Program, working in Sydney and exploring the Pilbara region as part of our long-term environmental monitoring programs. I dove headfirst into my role, and the skills honed during my time at university and College played a pivotal role.
What was your most significant challenge during your transition from university to work life?
Adapting to full-time working hours posed my most significant challenge, especially considering the stark contrast to the flexibility I enjoyed during my College days. Juggling work and personal life proved to be a struggle initially, and I missed the spontaneous coffee breaks and hangouts with friends that used to be part of my day. However, after a few months, I found my rhythm and settled into a more structured routine.
How did living at College help you with your transition into the workforce?
St Catherine's equipped me with invaluable people skills. Navigating diverse perspectives and engaging with individuals from various backgrounds and cultures has instilled confidence and ease in conversing with anyone. These interpersonal skills seamlessly translate into the professional realm, empowering me to communicate effectively with both colleagues and clients in a confident manner. I found value in the presence of older postgraduate students around me while at College. As I was contemplating postgraduate studies at the time, I engaged in frequent conversations with them to gain insights into their experiences, and the knowledge I acquired through these discussions has been incredibly insightful and beneficial.
Living at College also immersed me in a community of exceptionally supportive, high-achieving and driven individuals. The encouragement to exceed my potential was a constant theme throughout my College experience. Engaging in inspiring Faculty and Industry Dinners and dialogues with field experts from Western Australia has been incredible, providing unique insights that wouldn't have been possible without St Catherine's. The career support was another great feature, with assistance in refining my CV and cover letter through multiple drafts and constructive feedback from the College's Academic Team.
My most valuable connections emerged from friendships at St Catherine's. One of my friends from College recommended me for a position at SLR Consulting, where I currently work. Now, within our team, three St Catherine's alumni are still in our roles here, marking a continuation of the legacy established by four of our fellow graduates who once contributed to this workplace. It has become a running joke among us about who the next St Catherine's alum to join the team will be!
What advice would you offer to later-year students or recent graduates pursuing their career aspirations?
I strongly recommend following your passion and pursuing what brings you joy. While navigating my academic path, I encountered sceptics who doubted the possibility of finding employment in my field. However, I persevered despite the challenges and landed my dream job.
I also encourage you to converse with diverse individuals and network—constantly! Forge meaningful connections with your professors and tutors—take the time to chat after class. Their wealth of wisdom is an invaluable resource and can provide fantastic support. Nurturing these relationships can pave the way for exceptional references when you start the job application process.
You should also maximise your College experience by volunteering whenever possible. You will build fantastic connections, and employers will view this involvement favourably. The hands-on experience will open doors and help you confirm if it's the right professional fit.