Would anyone like to pick my new career?

[sjoh197]

With the realization that there is a good chance I won't get into the one grad school I applied to.... I am attempting to come up with a plan for what to do after acceptances and rejections roll out. 

Background: I just got my geology degree after my partner got a really great job in Houston. A month later... oil crashed like a plane without wings. Since moving is not an option, and I have basically zero chance of finding a job in my field here for at least 2-3 years.... I need a new career path. What sounds fun and has nothing to do with oil? ...or medicine.... I hate medicine. 

[nikcav]

It would require a move, but I totally just saw an article about Legoland Florida needing master builders. That sounds pretty awesome to me.

[CornUltimatum]

There are a lot of things you can do with a geology degree, you just need to be a bit flexible. Do you have any GIS experience? Geologists are commonly employed in GIS work for the government and other business. UPS, FEDex and so on are companies that commonly employ geologists with GIS experience. If you can, see if any local colleges offer a GIS certification as it can make you more flexible. AND it can still be used for an oil career later. 

You can learn more about GIS here: http://www.esri.com/what-is-gis

You may also be able to be employed by the government or construction for other reasons, such as land assessment. Road construction commonly employs geologists. 

Houston has some nearby state parks you may be able to get employed at as well. In general I would find work that pertains to geology in some way as that can help you get into graduate school later. 

 

Also I wouldn't give up on oil yet, Houston is a strong hold for that career. You can probably get at least mudlogging. Check out some smaller oil companies as well, not just the big ones to see if they have any openings that only require a bachelor's. I recommend going in person and giving your resume. Smaller companies you may even be able to meet those in charge of hiring. 

Edited January 22, 2016 by CornUltimatum