College Timeline Advice?

College Timeline Advice?

Hi everyone! I’m about to enter my third year at community college with plans to transfer to university after the spring semester of 2026 to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology, following my Associate’s in Biology. Just to give some context, this is my third year because in 2023, I was balancing a part-time job with a full course load (around 12 units). I decided to leave my job in order to focus on my studies after my grades began to slip, even though my family relies on a limited income. Fortunately, most of my courses have been general education.

Now, I’m facing a challenge with my course load for the next two semesters (Fall and Spring). I’ll need to take around 18-20 units each semester. While it’s a hefty load, I’m managing 14 units of STEM classes right now and I’m optimistic about completing my A.S.T. successfully. However, I’ve recently learned that having programming skills (like R or Python) can significantly enhance my chances of securing internships and job opportunities.

I’m hesitant to extend my studies by an additional year, even though it could lighten my course load, because I fear I might be perceived as falling behind, or that I won’t seem as competitive to future employers in this field. I have a couple of questions: 1) Would pursuing an additional degree in something like statistics or computer science be beneficial, even if it means extending my time in community college? 2) If I do take an extra year, will that negatively impact how organizations view me and my connections in the field?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

One Reply to “College Timeline Advice?”

  1. First of all, it’s great that you’re thinking ahead about your academic journey and how to best position yourself for a future in Marine Biology! Here are my thoughts regarding your questions:

    1. Will it be beneficial to get an additional degree (something in statistics or computer science) if you extend one year?
      Yes, pursuing additional skills like programming or statistics can be very beneficial, especially in fields like Marine Biology where data analysis and coding are increasingly valuable. Both R and Python are widely used in scientific research and data analysis, and having these skills can make you more competitive for internships and job opportunities. If you can fit a minor or an additional certificate in programming or statistics into your plan without overwhelming yourself, it may provide an edge without necessarily needing a full extra degree.

    2. If I extend a year, will that make me less attractive to organizations and connections in the field?
      Not necessarily. It’s important to remember that quality often trumps speed when it comes to education. Taking the time to gain additional skills or improve your overall GPA can actually enhance your profile. Many employers value the experiences you have and the skills you acquire over the time taken to finish your degree, especially if you can demonstrate that you’ve been proactive (like getting internships, research experience, or relevant skills). Additionally, many students take longer than the traditional timeline, and organizations understand that everyone’s path is unique.

    Other Considerations:
    Balance: Make sure to maintain a balance between coursework, gained skills, and personal well-being. Overloading yourself can lead to burnout which might negatively impact your academic performance.
    Networking: Start building connections in your field now. Attend seminars, join clubs related to Marine Biology, or get involved with research. Networking can be just as critical as your course load.
    Internships/Experience: Prioritize gaining relevant experience, whether through internships, research opportunities, or volunteer work. Employers often value practical experience.

    In the end, it’s about finding what works best for you and making the most of the opportunities at hand. Trust your instincts, and prioritize your education and personal development over perceived timelines. Good luck, and feel free to reach out if you need more specific advice about your courses or career options!

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