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Originally Posted by eeyore  My experience is more in the practical conservation field but in my opinion it is not a mistake to volunteer at all - you can tout your CV arround as much as you like but if you dont have the minimum required experience (which is often a year or so) then you will get nothing except letters of rejection. |
Amy it seems to depend on what type of work your going for. As shown by the diversity of responses. Do what ever you can to find work be it volunteering, education or just sending out your cv.
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Originally Posted by eeyore you must get the experience and if you cant get a job then the only route open to you is to volunteer - incidentally volunteering with a good organisation is not about "working for nothing" it should be a mutually beneficial experience where in return for your work you get valuable skills , experience , training and a reference when you apply for your first paid job. It is also a valuable networking opportunity that not only helps you get a job but helps you make contacts which will advance your career later too. |
Some people can't financially afford to volunteer when they first leave education no matter if it provides a beneficial experience, if you can afford it then go for it since potential interviewers love it if you can talk about working in some exotic country studying some little known species or wokring down at your local nature reserve. Amy note the networking comment as this will help you throughout your professional life.