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Tag: #HMP

Bryan Haddad Zamorano: Fieldwork, Growth, and Environmental Purpose

Bryan Haddad Zamorano ’26, Majors: Environmental Studies & Music
 Seasonal Conservation Technician (Summer 2025)
 Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin / Zoological Society of Milwaukee

Bryan spent his summer on a conservation mission that most people will never experience, helping protect one of the world’s rarest butterflies, the Poweshiek Skipperling. What started with uncertainty and self-doubt turned into a field-season full of discovery, confidence, and purpose.

Working with the Zoological Society of Milwaukee through NRF’s DICI program, Bryan surveyed fragile prairie habitats, learned professional wildlife monitoring techniques, and helped process real conservation data used by researchers fighting to save an endangered species. His days ranged from carefully navigating tall grass in search of tiny pollinators to long, focused hours identifying and organizing species photos, a real balance of field adventure and scientific precision.

Just as meaningful were the connections he built. Weekly NRF programming connected Bryan with conservation professionals and interns of colour who helped him see a place for himself in the field. That support, and seeing people like him leading conservation efforts, shifted his sense of what’s possible.

This experience didn’t just grow Bryan’s skills; it reshaped his direction. Inspired by the blend of ecology and community impact he witnessed, he shifted his path to Environmental Studies and Music, determined to use creativity and storytelling to bring more voices into environmental conversations.

Bryan leaves this internship not only with field experience, but with clarity, confidence, and a renewed belief in where he belongs.

This internship was made possible through generous donor funding, which supports students in gaining real-world experience without the stress of balancing summer expenses. Hoping to intern next summer? Schedule an appointment at the Career Centre and we can help you! The summer internship funding application will open in early January, after we get back from break. Learn more about funding for internships.

Discover Loralei’s Experience as a Water Quality Intern at Milwaukee Riverkeeper

Loralei Paddock ’27, Major: Environmental Science
Water Quality Intern (Summer 2025)
The environmental nonprofit organization, Milwaukee Riverkeeper (MRK)

Lorelei spent her summer working as a Water Quality intern at the environmental non-profit Milwaukee Riverkeeper (MRK). She was indulged in a lot of activities like conducting fieldwork monitoring stream water quality, operating plastic clean-up robots, and also contributed to multiple data bases used in the organization. She gained a lot of useful skills and knowledge which are helping her not only in selecting a career but also succeeding in it.

Her most valuable experience from her role at MRK was her exposure to mentorship. The internship was a part of the Social & Environmental Justice Cohort, hosted by Professor Jason Brozek. In the term before the internship, she and other students met with Professor Jason to discuss justice-related issues they might encounter in Milwaukee and Appleton. During the internship, she received support and guidance from her direct supervisor and the staff at Milwaukee Riverkeeper, who provided relevant information throughout the summer. This support not only boosted her confidence in her tasks but also helped her feel more comfortable as she transitioned to future classes and jobs.

The internship reinforced the importance of asking questions and seeking support, which boosted her confidence as a student, scientist, and employee. Through mentor/mentee relationships and observing others, she developed realistic expectations for future employment. She is grateful to the donors for making this experience possible, as it opened new doors, introduced her to new passions, and inspired her to consider working for Milwaukee Riverkeeper or a similar organization in the future.

This internship was made possible through generous donor funding, which supports students in gaining real-world experience without the stress of balancing summer expenses. Hoping to intern next summer? Schedule an appointment at the Career Centre and we can help you! The summer internship funding application will open in early January, after we get back from break. Learn more about funding for internships.

Meet Madelynn: Finding Her Path Through Pathfinders

Madelynn Kennedy ’27, BA: Psychology, Neuroscience

Intern: Pathfinders Milwaukee

Let’s highlight Madelynn Kennedy ’27 who spent her summer at Pathfinders Milwaukee, one of the leading shelter programs in the country! Finding her path in social services, Madelynn spent extensive time with youth ages 9-25 who are going through incredibly tough times. By learning how to properly support them through Pathfinders Milwaukee, she gained an experience that was “almost impossible to capture on paper”.

Madelynn was able to make a real difference amongst those who needed it most. By promoting equity, inclusion, a judgement-free zone, a safe space, and professionalism, and by working directly with adoption services, corrections facilities, and the Department of Child and Family Services, she was able to use her internship opportunity as just that: an opportunity; an opportunity to change lives, in ways big and small. This is a type of career preparation you can’t take a class on. Keep it up, Madelynn!

This internship was made possible through generous donor funding, which supports students in gaining real-world experience without the stress of balancing summer expenses. Hoping to intern next summer? Schedule an appointment at the Career Center and we can help you! The summer internship funding application will open in early January, after we get back from break. Learn more about funding for internships.

Lauren Chance is a current sophomore at Lawrence University double majoring in Business and Entrepreneurship and Music, also minoring in Spanish. As a Career Peer Educator (NES, VPA), an Admissions Student Ambassador, and an EPIC Orientation Leader and Peer Mentor, she has a passion for helping others. Lauren aspires to work in arts administration focusing on marketing or event management. Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn.

Strategies on Keeping a Job Search Manageable 

When I think about managing a job search, one key message really stands out: you don’t have to treat every job application like it’s a life-or-death situation. Not all opportunities deserve the same level of effort, and trying to give every single one your full attention is a guaranteed recipe for burnout. What I’ve learned is that by approaching your search strategically—with clear categories and time boundaries—you can actually make the process much more efficient and less stressful. 

The Emotional and Time Cost of Job Searching 

One of the first things that stuck with me was how every application comes with two kinds of costs: time and emotional energy. That part really made sense. You can easily lose hours tweaking your resume or obsessing over a cover letter—only to hear nothing back. If you do this over and over again without a clear strategy, it’s no surprise you’d end up feeling frustrated or drained. 

So instead of throwing your energy at everything, it’s smarter to think about how much each opportunity is really worth. That’s where the tiered approach comes in. 

The Tiered Approach: Matching Effort to Opportunity 

This framework breaks down your job opportunities into three main categories—and I found this concept super helpful for balancing energy, time, and expectations. 

Tier 1: “Drop Everything” 

These are the dream jobs. The ones that make you think, “If I got this, I’d pack up and move tomorrow.” They’re rare—maybe only one or two like this show up during your whole search. 

Because they’re so meaningful, they deserve deep investment: 8 to 10+ hours of prep. That includes researching the company in depth, doing informational interviews, and customizing every single part of your application. Even if you don’t get the job, the process itself is rewarding because you’re learning and connecting. 

Tier 2: “Strong Opportunities” 

These are jobs you’d be genuinely excited to land, and they make up the bulk of a healthy job search. What I like about this tier is that it balances quality and efficiency—you put in a solid 30 to 45 minutes of effort, enough to stand out without exhausting yourself. 

Tier 3: “Acceptable” 

These are roles that you’d take if offered, but you’re not emotionally invested in them. Maybe they’re slightly out of your comfort zone or not quite ideal—but they’re still worth applying to. Here, you only spend about 5 minutes per application. The key is not getting emotionally caught up in these; the lower investment helps protect your energy. 

Non-Tiered (a.k.a. Don’t Apply) 

This part really clarified things for me: if you wouldn’t take the job even if offered, just don’t apply. That simple rule can save you so much time and stress. It’s easy to feel guilty about skipping opportunities, but applying to mismatched roles wastes your resources and clouds your focus. 

The 15-Minute Job Search: A Game-Changer 

Another powerful takeaway was the 15-minute job search strategy. I love how this flips the typical grind mindset on its head. Instead of sitting down for an undefined and overwhelming session, you give yourself a very short, clear block of time with a specific goal. 

For example: 

Target: “Search for data science internships in Chicago.” 

Goal: “Find two roles to apply to.” 

Time Limit: 15 minutes—no more, no less. 

This approach keeps things light, focused, and doable. It’s great for maintaining momentum, especially when juggling other priorities like school or personal life. 

Final Thoughts 

What I’ve really come to understand is that a well-managed job search isn’t just about maximizing output—it’s about protecting your energy, managing your time wisely, and investing differently depending on the value of the opportunity. By applying a tiered system and breaking tasks into manageable chunks, the process becomes much more human and less exhausting. 

Ultimately, you’re not just trying to land any job—you’re trying to land the right one. And that takes clarity, discipline, and a little self-compassion. 

Sabin Ku Shah is a Computer Science Major and a Data Science Minor at Lawrence University and also a Secretary at Lawrence University Data Science Club. As a Career Peer Educator for CJW and GLI Career Communities, Sabin is motivated to help students explore their career paths. Connect with Sabin on Linkedin

Niche Job Sites and Decoding Job Descriptions

In today’s competitive job market, searching for your next opportunity can feel overwhelming. One way to ease this process is by utilizing niche job sites and understanding how to decode job descriptions. These specialized platforms and insightful reading of job listings can help you find more targeted roles and better match your skills to the opportunities available. Let’s dive into how these tools can enhance your job search.

What Are Niche Job Sites?

Niche job boards are specialized platforms focused on specific industries or career paths. Unlike general job boards, such as LinkedIn or Indeed, niche sites concentrate on particular skills or sectors. They cater to professionals with distinct qualifications and offer targeted opportunities that may not be listed on larger platforms.

These boards are often born from professionals’ efforts to create community spaces where they can share job leads, network, and support each other’s careers. Some niche sites are formal and even exclusive, while others have a grassroots feel, providing a more personal touch to the job search process.

Popular Examples of niche job sites include:

  • Dice: For tech professionals looking for roles in the IT and software development fields.
  • Publisher’s Weekly Job Zone: Tailored for those in the publishing and literary world.
  • FlexJobs: Specializes in remote work opportunities across industries.

Pros and Cons of Niche Job Boards

Advantages for Job Seekers

  • Less competition: By applying to specialized roles, you face less competition compared to broader platforms.
  • Targeted job matches: These sites are designed to help you find jobs that match your unique skills and experience.
  • Industry-specific recruiters: You’ll have more direct access to recruiters who specialize in your field.
  • More detailed job descriptions: Niche job boards tend to provide more relevant and detailed information about job requirements.

Disadvantages for Job Seekers

  • Fewer listings: These boards usually have a smaller pool of job listings, but this can be seen as an advantage because the roles are more tailored.
  • Potentially missing mainstream opportunities: Since niche boards cater to specific fields, you might miss out on broader listings found on larger job platforms.
  • Membership fees: Some niche sites charge for access, and some require you to pay for job postings. These fees can be prohibitive, particularly for small organizations looking to hire.
  • Multiple boards to monitor: To maximize your chances, you may need to monitor several niche job sites regularly.

Despite the smaller pool, niche job sites often yield higher-quality candidates for specialized roles, making them a worthwhile investment for job seekers.

Decoding Job Descriptions

Understanding job descriptions can be tricky, especially when the wording isn’t straightforward. Here’s how to decode these listings into something more manageable.

Analyzing Position Context

Start by understanding how the role connects to the broader organization. Is it a key position in a growing department, or does it have more of a support role? Understanding the department’s relationship with other teams and the strategic importance of the position will help you grasp the scope of the job.

Evaluating Tasks

Take a look at the required tasks listed in the description. Ask yourself, “Can I perform these tasks well?” Compare the listed duties with your current skill set. If you don’t check off every box, don’t be discouraged—many job descriptions list ideal qualifications rather than absolute requirements.

Qualifications: A Wishlist

Remember, the qualifications listed often represent a wishlist rather than strict requirements. Don’t be disheartened if you don’t meet every single qualification; instead, focus on your relevant experiences and how they align with the role.

Gathering Evidence

When decoding a job description, it’s essential to gather evidence of your capabilities. Compile specific examples of past experiences that demonstrate your ability to handle similar tasks. Use these examples in your cover letter and interview to showcase your suitability for the role.

Deciphering Vague Job Descriptions

Many job descriptions are vague or lack specific details. Here’s how to clarify those uncertainties.

Research Similar Roles

Search for similar job roles across multiple companies to see if there are common tasks and responsibilities. Compare qualifications to get a better idea of what’s typically expected for the role in your industry.

Leverage AI Tools

You can also use AI tools to analyze and interpret ambiguous job descriptions. These tools can help generate possible responsibilities and skills implied in the listing, guiding you on what to expect and how to prepare for the role.

Inquire from Network Contacts

Reach out to your professional network to get insider information. Ask alumni, colleagues, or industry experts about the role. Networking can provide clarity on ambiguous job listings and help you make a more informed decision.

When you’re deep in the job search, niche job sites and the ability to decode job descriptions can be powerful tools. Niche sites offer specialized opportunities and reduced competition, helping you find roles that closely match your skills. At the same time, understanding the nuances of job descriptions allows you to assess whether a position truly fits your experience. Together, these strategies can make the job search process more focused, efficient, and successful.

Economics and Business Analytics double major and a Data Science minor at Lawrence University as well as an Event Coordinator at Pan Asian Organization and Social Media Manager at LU Data Science Club. Connect with Nadika in LinkedIn

🧠 Decoding the Fine Print: How to Dissect a Job Description Like a Pro

Generated with the help of OpenAI. (2025). ChatGPT (May 30 version) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com/

If you’ve ever read a job posting and felt unsure about what exactly the employer wants, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Job descriptions can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re just starting out and trying to land your first internship, research role, or full-time job in science, healthcare, or any other field.

But here’s the good news: once you know how to break a job description down into key parts, you can tailor your resume, write stronger applications, and even walk into interviews with more confidence. This blog will walk you through the anatomy of a job description—what each part means and how to read between the lines.

📌 1. Start with the Job Title—and Don’t Judge Too Fast

The title gives you a quick snapshot, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. Titles like “Research Assistant,” “Lab Technician,” or “Program Intern” may sound similar, but responsibilities can vary widely across organizations. Click into the posting to see what it really involves.

🔬 Tip: In science or healthcare, a “Technician” might be doing hands-on lab work in one setting and mostly data entry in another. Read beyond the title!

🧭 2. Understand the Organization’s Mission

Often tucked into the first paragraph, the company or institution will share who they are and what they value. This is your chance to see whether their goals align with yours.

💡 Example: If you’re looking for impact-driven work, a hospital lab focusing on patient diagnostics might feel different from a biotech company developing commercial tools. Both are valid, but knowing the difference can guide your decision.

🔍 3. Highlight the Responsibilities Section

This is where the bulk of the day-to-day tasks are listed. Look for action words—“coordinate,” “analyze,” “assist,” “conduct,” “maintain”—and ask yourself: Have I done something similar in class, a student org, or a campus job?

✍️ Action Step: Copy the job duties into a document and underline verbs. Then jot down your experience next to each one. This gives you material for your resume and your cover letter.

🧪 4. Decode the Required vs. Preferred Qualifications

This section is gold. “Required” means the minimum you need; “preferred” means nice-to-have. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t check every box—employers often list their ideal candidate, not expecting perfection.

🧠 Pro Tip: If you meet about 70% of the requirements, it’s still worth applying. Focus on how your transferable skills—like time management, lab techniques, or data analysis—can meet their needs.

🎯 5. Pay Attention to Keywords (Especially for Resume Matching)

Many employers use software (Applicant Tracking Systems) to scan resumes. That’s why it helps to match key phrases from the job description in your resume and cover letter.

🔬 Example: If they say “pipetting experience” or “Western blotting,” and you’ve done that in a lab class, name it exactly like they did.

Use tools like Jobscan.co to compare your resume to the job post—especially helpful when applying for competitive roles.

❓ 6. Clarify Anything Unclear—and Research

If the description includes jargon or ambiguous phrases (“fast-paced environment,” “multidisciplinary approach”), don’t hesitate to look up the company’s recent projects, staff bios, or LinkedIn page. Understanding context can help you better prepare your application or interview responses.

🔬 Sample Job Description: Biology Research Assistant (Wet Lab Focus)

Position: Research Assistant – Molecular Biology Lab
Location: University Biomedical Research Center

Summary: Assist in laboratory experiments investigating gene expression in C. elegans and Drosophila.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Prepare media and maintain C. elegans and Drosophila colonies
  • Perform PCR, gel electrophoresis, and basic molecular cloning techniques
  • Keep detailed lab notebooks and digital data logs
  • Assist in analyzing microscopy images and fluorescence data
  • Follow safety and waste disposal protocols in accordance with lab regulations

Qualifications:

  • Background in biology, molecular biology, or biochemistry
  • Hands-on experience with pipetting, PCR, or gel electrophoresis preferred
  • Attention to detail and ability to follow multi-step protocols
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively

🔍 How to Break It Down

📌 Job Title

The title “Research Assistant – Molecular Biology” already signals that this role involves experimental work at the bench. Keywords like gene expression, C. elegans, and PCR give you clues about the techniques and organisms you’ll encounter.

🧠 Responsibilities

These are direct cues for your resume. If you’ve done anything remotely similar in a course, independent study, or summer lab, highlight it!

✅ Matching Resume Bullets:

  • Maintained C. elegans colonies and prepared NGM plates for daily transfers and imaging studies
  • Conducted PCR and gel electrophoresis to confirm DNA constructs in gene expression experiments
  • Recorded experimental results and troubleshooting notes in both paper and electronic lab notebooks
  • Analyzed fluorescence microscopy images using ImageJ and recorded gene expression patterns
  • Adhered to chemical safety protocols and waste disposal standards in BSL-1 lab settings

🧰 Qualifications

Don’t feel pressured to match everything perfectly. “Preferred” qualifications mean they’re nice to have—not mandatory.

💡 Example: If you haven’t done microscopy yet, but have done image analysis in a class project or used a dissecting microscope, mention that—and show you’re excited to learn.

✍️ Cover Letter Line:
“While I’ve not yet worked with fluorescence microscopy, I’ve used dissecting microscopes and completed a term project quantifying cell morphology, and I’m eager to build those imaging skills further.”

🎯 Pro Tips for Dissecting Any Job Description

  • Tailor your cover letter to the lab’s techniques, goals, and research model.
  • Copy the full job post into a Word or Google Doc.
  • Underline all verbs in the responsibilities section.
  • Match each verb with your own coursework, labs, or campus jobs.
  • Write specific resume bullets that mirror the employer’s phrasing.

🎤 Final Thought: Every Job Description Is a Story

It’s not just a checklist—it’s a story of what the organization needs, and who they hope to find. When you learn to “read” it, you’re not just decoding requirements—you’re seeing if the opportunity aligns with your goals, skills, and future path.

Whether you’re looking to work in a hospital, research lab, nonprofit, or biotech company, dissecting job descriptions is a skill that can set you apart. Start practicing now, and you’ll build confidence with each application.

Dennis Boakye ’26 is a senior with a major in Neuroscience and a minor in Mathematics. He is also a co-president of the Neurolawrence Club and the Synthetic Biology Club, and the treasurer for the American Medical Student Association (AMSA, Lawrence Chapter) and the Black Student Union (BSU). Dennis is the current career peer educator for the Health and Medicinal Professions (HMP) and the Physical and Natural Sciences (PHN) career communities at Lawrence University. Connect with Dennis on LinkedIn.