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

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.

đź’ˇ 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

đź“Ś 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!

âś… 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.

đź’ˇ 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 junior 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.

🎮 Video Gaming and Learning: A Powerful (and Often Overlooked) Duo in Medicine and Science

When we think of video games, we often picture late-night matches, quick reflexes, and colorful graphics—not anatomy labs or operating rooms. But research is changing that narrative. Educators and researchers increasingly recognize the surprising ways video games can support learning and skill-building in medicine, health, and the sciences.

From boosting cognitive flexibility to improving surgical precision, video games—both commercial and educational—are emerging as unconventional yet effective tools for student and professional development in science and healthcare.

🧠 Gaming for Cognitive and Scientific Skill-Building

Scientific and health-focused learning demands more than memorization. It requires spatial reasoning, critical thinking, problem-solving, and quick decision-making—all of which are key elements in many video games.

For instance, real-time strategy and action games have been linked to enhanced attention control and working memory (Bediou et al., 2018). These are essential for students navigating high-stakes environments like chemistry labs or clinical simulations.

In a study published in Nature, researchers found that video game players had increased gray matter volume in regions of the brain associated with spatial navigation, memory formation, and strategic planning—key areas for medical learners (Kühn et al., 2014).

🔬 Video Games in Medical and Health Education

Gamified simulations are now being integrated into medical education to supplement traditional training. Here’s how video games are being used in health and science contexts:

  • Surgical training: Video games have been shown to improve hand-eye coordination and motor skills relevant to laparoscopic surgery (Rosser et al., 2007).
  • Emergency response: Games like Pulse!! help learners practice diagnosing and responding to medical emergencies in real-time (Kenny et al., 2007).
  • Mental health education: Games such as SPARX and Depression Quest simulate mental health conditions to build empathy and emotional resilience.

Even in undergraduate education, games like Foldit—a protein-folding game—allow players to contribute to real biomedical discoveries (Cooper et al., 2010).

🏥 Enhancing Science Identity and Health Literacy

Video games can also promote science identity—a student’s belief that they can “be a science person”—by making scientific thinking feel accessible and engaging. This is especially true for students from underrepresented backgrounds in STEM.

Health-themed games are being used to improve public health literacy. For example, Re-Mission gives players control over virtual immune cells to fight cancer, helping young patients better understand their treatments and feel empowered (Kato et al., 2008).

👩‍⚕️ Careers, Gamers, and Future Physicians

For pre-med and health sciences students, video gaming might seem unrelated to career goals—but it doesn’t have to be. Many medical schools are investing in simulation-based learning and virtual reality tools to train students in a low-risk, interactive environment.

Soft skills developed through gaming—such as persistence, collaboration, and systems thinking—are essential in healthcare. And for those passionate about both health and gaming, fields like medical simulation design or health tech are growing career paths.

🎓 Final Thoughts

Video games aren’t just entertainment—they’re engines of learning, especially when applied intentionally in medicine and science. Whether you’re training for surgery, learning anatomy, or just exploring science through simulation, don’t discount the power of play.

So next time you sit down with a controller or keyboard, know that you might be building the very skills that could one day save a life—or help you ace that biology exam.

đź“š References

  • Bediou, B., Adams, D. M., Mayer, R. E., Tipton, E., Green, C. S., & Bavelier, D. (2018). Meta-analysis of action video game impact on perceptual, attentional, and cognitive skills. Psychological Bulletin, 144(1), 77–110. https://doi.org/10.1037/bul0000130
  • Cooper, S., Khatib, F., Treuille, A., et al. (2010). Predicting protein structures with a multiplayer online game. Nature, 466(7307), 756–760. https://doi.org/10.1038/nature09304
  • Kato, P. M., Cole, S. W., Bradlyn, A. S., & Pollock, B. H. (2008). A video game improves behavioral outcomes in adolescents and young adults with cancer: A randomized trial. Pediatrics, 122(2), e305–e317. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2007-3134
  • Kenny, R. F., Andrews, G., Vignola, R., & Ritchie, D. (2007). Using a computer-based simulation game to improve learning in emergency response. Technology, Instruction, Cognition and Learning, 5(4), 291–305.
  • KĂĽhn, S., Gleich, T., Lorenz, R. C., Lindenberger, U., & Gallinat, J. (2014). Playing Super Mario induces structural brain plasticity. Molecular Psychiatry, 19(2), 265–271. https://doi.org/10.1038/mp.2013.120
  • Rosser, J. C., Lynch, P. J., Cuddihy, L., et al. (2007). The impact of video games on training surgeons in the 21st century. Archives of Surgery, 142(2), 181–186. https://doi.org/10.1001/archsurg.142.2.181

Dennis Boakye ’26 is a junior 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.

Thinking Outside the Lab Coat: Exploring Entry-Level Research Roles in Industry

If you read our last post about academic research, you already know how valuable those entry-level roles can be for learning, growth, and discovery. But what if you’re someone who thrives on solving real-world problems with real-world outcomes? What if you want your research to leave the lab and make its way to hospitals, manufacturing lines, or even climate models?

That’s where industry research comes in.

Whether you’re passionate about pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, environmental science, or consumer health products, industry offers a wide spectrum of research roles that blend scientific rigor with direct application. And the best part? These positions are not just for people with advanced degrees or 10+ years of experience. They’re available to recent graduates, career explorers, and even undergrads seeking summer roles.

Let’s break down what entry-level industry research is all about—and why it might be the perfect fit for you.

So, What Counts as Industry Research?

Industry research happens outside of academic or government institutions. You’ll find these roles in:

  • Pharmaceutical companies (e.g., Pfizer, AbbVie, Novartis)
  • Biotech firms (e.g., Genentech, Illumina, Ginkgo Bioworks)
  • Environmental & sustainability companies
  • Medical device developers
  • Food & consumer goods (e.g., 3M, Procter & Gamble)
  • Clinical research organizations (CROs) like ICON, IQVIA, or Labcorp

Your job might involve testing new compounds, designing experiments for product development, supporting clinical trials, or analyzing large datasets to optimize a product.

How Does It Compare to Academic Research?

Let’s talk vibe.

AspectAcademic ResearchIndustry Research
PaceOften exploratory, longer timelinesFaster, goal-driven
FocusPublishing and generating new knowledgeProducing results with commercial or public impact
MentorshipClose work with faculty and grad studentsSupervision by team leads or project managers
FlexibilityUsually part-time or tied to the school yearOften full-time, structured shifts
FundingGrants and institutional budgetsCorporate R&D budgets
OutcomePublications, thesis, grantsPatents, prototypes, product launches

In short: academic research is great for foundational learning, but industry research puts your science to work—on timelines, with deliverables, and often with cross-disciplinary teams.

Why Start in Industry? Here Are the Perks

There’s a lot to love about getting your start in industry research:

  • đź’Ľ More structured work environments: You’ll likely have defined hours, team roles, and training protocols.
  • đź’° Better starting salaries: Industry positions often pay more than academic RA roles, especially at full-time entry level.
  • 🚀 Clearer advancement tracks: Many companies offer professional development, internal mobility, and early promotion opportunities.
  • 🔬 Exposure to applied innovation: You’ll see how R&D leads to real products and solutions—fast.
  • 🧠 Transferable skills: Industry teaches project management, collaboration, and regulatory knowledge that’s invaluable across sectors.

Where Can Students Find Industry Roles?

You don’t need a foot in the door to start exploring. Here’s how students and grads are finding roles:

For Undergrads & Summer Seekers

Look into summer internships and co-ops at companies like:

Tip: Many of these open applications in fall and spring—so start early and set reminders!

For Seniors & Recent Grads

Check full-time listings like:

You can also filter listings on Handshake, LinkedIn, and Indeed by “entry level,” “research associate,” or “lab technician” + your interest area.

How to Stand Out When Applying

Whether you’re applying for a summer internship or a full-time role, here’s how to shine:

  • Customize your resume with action verbs and lab/project experience
  • Highlight soft skills like communication, adaptability, or teamwork
  • Learn the lingo—mention tools like ELNs, CRISPR, Python, or PCR (only if you’ve used them!)
  • Write a short, energetic cover letter that shows your enthusiasm for the company’s mission

And don’t underestimate your campus connections—ask your professors or career center if they know alumni in your target field.

Message From The Career Center

Whether you’re just starting to think about summer opportunities or have been searching with no luck—we’re here to help. The Career Center offers personalized support, and we’ve worked with tons of students in all kinds of situations.

Not sure where to start? Feeling stuck? We can help you:

✔️ Explore internship or job ideas
✔️ Polish your resume or cover letter
✔️ Navigate Handshake or other search tools
✔️ Make a plan that works for you

Our goal is to make things clearer, not more stressful.

đź“… Book a time that works for you:  http://lawrence.joinhandshake.com/appointments/new

No pressure, just helpful conversation and actionable steps.

Final Thoughts: Industry Research = Science in Action

Here’s the truth: whether you end up in academia, clinical work, or the corporate world, entry-level industry research is one of the most dynamic ways to start your career. You’ll be immersed in teamwork, real data, and real impact. And yes—you’ll grow. A lot.

Whether you’re a curious sophomore looking for a summer experience or a senior thinking ahead to post-grad life, don’t overlook the world of industry. It’s where science meets speed. Ideas become innovations. And you? You become a researcher who makes things happen.

So go ahead—apply. Email that recruiter. Tweak that resume. Your future in research doesn’t have to be confined to the ivory tower. Sometimes, the best discoveries happen when you step outside the lab coat.

Dennis Boakye ’26 is a junior 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.

🧪 So You Want to Do Research? Here’s How to Land an Entry-Level Role (and Why You Absolutely Can)

If you’re even thinking about research—whether in a biology lab, a clinical setting, a psychology department, or out in the field—you’re already asking the right questions. Entry-level academic research positions are one of the most accessible (and frankly, coolest) ways to get real-world experience after graduation. They teach you how science actually works, how discovery happens, and how teams solve problems when the answers aren’t in the back of the textbook.

But here’s the thing: research isn’t just for students with a 4.0 GPA or decades of lab experience. And it’s definitely not only for seniors. Whether you’re a curious first-year, a junior feeling behind, or a graduating senior wondering what’s next—you’ve got options. Let’s talk about how to get started and why these positions are worth exploring.

What Is an Entry-Level Research Role?

Entry-level research positions are essentially your gateway into the world of professional discovery. Common job titles include:

  • Research Assistant
  • Laboratory Technician
  • Clinical Research Coordinator
  • Undergraduate or Post-Bacc Fellow

These roles might involve organizing data, helping with lab experiments, assisting clinical teams, or reviewing academic literature. Some are hands-on in wet labs; others are more analytical and computer-based. Many are offered through universities, hospitals, nonprofit research institutes, or government agencies.

You Don’t Need a Perfect GPA—Really

“I probably can’t get a research job unless I have a 4.0.”
– Every student ever (who’s been misinformed)

That’s just not true.

While strong grades can help, many hiring managers care more about your curiosity, organization, and persistence. Some of the most effective researchers aren’t straight-A students—they’re the ones who ask great questions, troubleshoot patiently, and show up consistently.

So yes—apply, even if your GPA isn’t perfect. Your interest and attitude can go a long way.

How Students of Any Year Can Prepare

Whether you’re just starting college or approaching graduation, you can start laying the groundwork for a research career right now:

🎓 First-Years & Sophomores

Attend student research symposia or guest faculty talks. Ask questions. Join science or pre-health clubs. Take your lab classes seriously—they build your foundation and show future mentors you’re engaged.

🔬 Juniors

This is prime time to gain direct experience. Talk to professors about helping in their labs. Apply for summer programs like NSF REUs or SURF. Look for research-for-credit or independent study options.

🎓 Seniors & Recent Graduates

You’re in a great position to apply for full-time entry-level roles. These positions are often posted year-round. Use job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn Jobs, and Handshake to find them.

Where to Find Positions (And How to Stand Out)

Start with:

Also, don’t underestimate your own campus. Talk to your professors, department coordinators, or career center staff (book an appointment). Research roles are often filled internally before they’re posted publicly.

When applying:

  • Tailor your resume to highlight lab coursework, writing skills, or past internships
  • Write a brief, specific cover letter showing interest in that lab’s work
  • Ask for strong references from faculty who know your work ethic

A Few Real Examples (You Can Apply to Right Now)

Here are a few open roles (note: listings change fast, so check frequently):

Tip: Set up alerts on these platforms so you never miss a posting!

Real Talk: Research Isn’t Always Glamorous

There are days you’ll do repetitive data entry. There will be weeks when experiments fail. You might run the same protocol 20 times.

But there are also breakthrough moments. Times when you contribute to something no one’s ever known before. Times when your PI says, “This figure is going in the paper—and you’re listed as an author.”

The growth is real, and the impact is lasting.

✨ Your Next Chapter Starts Here

If you’re still wondering whether research is for you—let this be your sign: It is. The path to becoming a scientist, doctor, innovator, or data analyst often starts with a single role. One application. One professor who says yes.

You don’t have to have all the answers. You just need to be ready to ask great questions.

So take the leap. Hit submit. Reach out to that lab. Your journey of discovery is just beginning.

Dennis Boakye ’26 is a junior 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.

The Essence of Professionalism with Lessons from Two Career Communities: PHN and HMP

In today’s evolving workforce, professionalism is more than just a buzzword—it is the foundation of career success. Whether in the Health and Medical Professions (HMP) or the Physical and Natural Sciences (PHN), professionalism manifests in unique yet equally critical ways. Reflecting on my experiences and a recent conversation with an ICU nurse, I have come to appreciate how professionalism shapes workplace culture, career progression, and personal growth.

The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) defines professionalism as the ability to act with integrity, accountability, and preparedness while maintaining a positive personal brand. Professionalism is not just about appearance or etiquette—it is about dependability, attention to detail, and dedication to one’s role. These core principles apply universally, but their interpretation varies across industries. Behaviors that indicate professionalism include punctuality, effective communication, adaptability, and ethical conduct. Being on time reflects commitment and respect for others’ schedules, while clarity and respect in speech and writing foster positive interactions. Remaining flexible in the face of change showcases resilience, and upholding honesty and responsibility strengthens trust in professional environments.

On the other hand, a lack of professionalism can be detrimental. Tardiness, poor communication, resistance to change, and unethical behavior can erode trust and limit career opportunities. In professional settings, individuals who neglect their responsibilities or exhibit unprofessional conduct risk not only their own reputation but also the credibility of their teams and organizations.

Professionalism in healthcare is deeply intertwined with patient care and ethical responsibility. Health professionals must embody integrity by upholding honesty in all interactions, demonstrate compassion toward patients, and prioritize patient needs over personal interests. Excellence is a critical factor in ensuring the highest quality of patient care, and collaboration is essential for engaging with interdisciplinary teams to optimize outcomes.

Conversation With Kandie: Former ICU nurse

My conversation with Kandie provided valuable insights into professionalism in the medical field. She emphasized that professionalism is about maturity, preparedness, and knowing how to use resources effectively. In high-stress environments like the ICU, emotional control and accountability are essential. Healthcare professionals must remain composed and professional, even when personal relationships with colleagues or patients are challenging.

Kandie’s perspective reinforced that professionalism in medicine is not innate but learned. New hires enter with varying levels of professionalism, shaped by their upbringing, education, and past experiences. However, the expectation remains that they will quickly adapt and uphold the standards of their profession.

Unlike healthcare, where professionalism is often explicitly defined, careers in the physical and natural sciences assume an inherent understanding of professional behavior. Professionals in this field focus on applying logical reasoning to solve complex problems, ensuring research integrity, and staying updated on scientific advancements. Ethical conduct remains a fundamental principle, as does collaboration with peers to share knowledge and foster innovation. Scientists must also develop strong communication skills to effectively present research findings to diverse audiences.

In science, professionalism is demonstrated through meticulous research, ethical decision-making, and adherence to industry standards. Unlike healthcare professionals who interact directly with patients, scientists must maintain professionalism by ensuring data integrity and credibility in their work. Unethical behavior—such as falsifying data or neglecting safety protocols—can have far-reaching consequences in the scientific community.

My Reflection

One key takeaway from my conversation with Kandie is that professionalism is shaped early in life. Her father’s business instilled in her a sense of responsibility and workplace etiquette. Similarly, my experiences in both the HMP and PHN fields have taught me the importance of maintaining professionalism across different settings. Observing seasoned professionals, asking questions, and actively participating in professional development opportunities are crucial steps in building a strong foundation. Learning professionalism is not about perfection but about continuous improvement and adapting to new challenges.

Professionalism is a universal principle, yet it is applied differently across career communities. In healthcare, professionalism is largely patient-centered, requiring a strong ethical framework and interpersonal skills. In the sciences, professionalism is grounded in research integrity, analytical precision, and effective knowledge dissemination. Regardless of the field, professionalism is an essential trait that enhances workplace culture, strengthens relationships, and fosters career growth.

As I continue my professional journey, I recognize that professionalism is more than just a set of behaviors—it is a mindset. It is about showing up prepared, treating others with respect, and striving for excellence in everything I do. Whether in a hospital, research lab, or academic setting, professionalism will remain a guiding principle in my career and beyond.

Dennis Boakye ’26 is a junior 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.

Exploring Engineering Careers: Innovation, Creativity, and Impact

When we think of careers in innovation and technology, engineering often stands out as a prominent and rewarding field. Engineers play a crucial role in shaping our world, tackling complex problems, and transforming ideas into realities. As technology and global challenges evolve, the demand for skilled engineers continues to grow, offering exciting career prospects across various industries.

What Do Engineers Do?

Engineers are creative problem-solvers who design, develop, and improve systems, structures, and technologies. Their tasks typically involve:
Designing Solutions: Developing innovative products and systems to meet societal and industrial needs.
Analyzing and Testing: Ensuring products and structures are safe, efficient, and effective through rigorous testing and evaluation.
Project Management: Overseeing projects from conception to completion, ensuring they meet technical specifications and deadlines.
Maintenance and Improvement: Maintaining and upgrading existing infrastructure, machinery, and systems.


Engineers blend theoretical knowledge with practical skills to address real-world problems, making lasting impacts across diverse sectors.

Where Do Engineers Work?

Engineering professionals are employed across various industries and settings, such as:

  • Technology and Software: Google, Apple, Microsoft
  • Automotive and Aerospace: Tesla, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, NASA
  • Healthcare and Biomedical: Medtronic, Johnson & Johnson, GE Healthcare
  • Construction and Infrastructure: Bechtel, Jacobs Engineering
  • Energy and Environment: ExxonMobil, Siemens, renewable energy firms

This versatility allows engineers to pursue roles that align closely with their interests and career aspirations.

Who Do Engineers Collaborate With?

Engineering is inherently collaborative. Engineers frequently work alongside:

  • Scientists and Researchers: Incorporating scientific breakthroughs into practical solutions.
  • Architects and Designers: Collaborating on infrastructure and product development.
  • Business Professionals: Aligning projects with market needs and economic viability.
  • Government Officials and Regulatory Bodies: Ensuring compliance with safety, environmental, and quality standards.
  • Strong teamwork and communication skills are essential for engineers to succeed.
Job Outlook for Engineers

The engineering field offers strong job growth and excellent earning potential:

  • Job Growth: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, engineering careers are projected to grow steadily, especially in software, biomedical, environmental, and civil engineering.
  • Salary Potential: Engineers typically earn median annual salaries ranging from $80,000 to over $100,000, depending on specialization and experience.
  • Career Advancement: Opportunities for advancement into senior roles, management, or entrepreneurial ventures increase significantly with experience and further education.
How Do I Become an Engineer?

Becoming an engineer typically involves these steps:

  1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: Complete a bachelor’s degree program in engineering, typically a 4-year program. Specializations include mechanical, electrical, civil, chemical, and biomedical engineering.
  2. Gain Practical Experience: Participate in internships, cooperative education programs, or dual-degree programs (e.g., Lawrence University’s 3+2 Engineering program).
  3. Obtain Licensure (Optional but Recommended): Earn the Professional Engineer (PE) license, which is essential for career advancement in certain specializations, such as civil engineering.
  4. Pursue Advanced Education (Optional): A master’s or doctoral degree can further enhance your expertise, earning potential, and career opportunities.
Lawrence 3+2 Engineering Program

If you’re passionate about engineering but equally committed to the rich experiences of a liberal arts education, Lawrence University’s 3+2 dual-degree engineering program offers a compelling opportunity. This unique program allows students to earn two degrees over the course of five years—a Bachelor of Arts (BA) from Lawrence University and a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE) from one of our prestigious partner institutions. After spending three foundational years at Lawrence, students continue their journey with two additional years of specialized engineering education at either Columbia University in New York City, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), or Washington University in St. Louis.

What makes this dual-degree program particularly attractive is its ability to blend the breadth and critical-thinking skills fostered by a liberal arts education with the technical depth and practical expertise of engineering. Students in the program not only master rigorous technical skills but also develop strong communication abilities, creativity, and critical thinking skills that come from a liberal arts curriculum. This balanced education uniquely positions graduates for success in a variety of interdisciplinary careers and makes them highly desirable to employers across many industries.

Students interested in this pathway should begin by consulting with Lawrence’s engineering program advisors—Matthew Stoneking (Fall term) and Margaret Koker (Winter and Spring terms). Early and ongoing conversations with advisors help students chart a clear and manageable academic path, ensuring that they meet necessary prerequisites and are well-prepared for the transition. Essential foundational courses include Calculus, Multivariable Calculus, Ordinary Differential Equations, Principles of Chemistry, and Introduction to Physics, alongside a recommended course in computer science.

Beyond the STEM courses, Lawrence’s curriculum emphasizes a well-rounded education, requiring coursework in humanities and social sciences. Such courses are not just prerequisites for the engineering programs; they play a crucial role in developing engineers who are not only technically proficient but culturally aware, innovative thinkers, and excellent communicators.

Freshmen and sophomores considering engineering are encouraged to actively plan their coursework early, working closely with academic advisors to ensure they fulfill prerequisites while exploring areas of personal interest. By junior year, students typically refine their engineering interests and start the application process to their selected engineering schools, supported by Lawrence’s advising network.

Ultimately, Lawrence University’s 3+2 engineering program offers students a unique opportunity to bridge the comprehensive liberal arts education with the rigorous demands of an engineering career. By seamlessly integrating these educational experiences, students become equipped to navigate and excel in an increasingly interconnected and complex professional world. Whether you’re a freshman exploring possibilities, a sophomore starting to specialize, a junior preparing to transition, or even a senior considering next steps, engaging early and thoughtfully with the 3+2 program can significantly shape your academic and professional journey.

Professional Organizations and Resources

Joining professional engineering organizations provides valuable networking, career resources, and continued learning:

These organizations offer extensive resources for aspiring and current engineers, including conferences, certifications, and career guidance.

Conclusion

Engineering is an exciting and impactful career path ideal for those passionate about innovation, creativity, and practical problem-solving. Engineers drive progress across all sectors, creating sustainable and efficient solutions that directly enhance our quality of life. Whether you’re just starting your academic journey or exploring new career opportunities, the field of engineering offers rewarding challenges and the potential for significant professional growth.

Ready to start your engineering journey? Explore programs and take the first step toward an exciting career in Engineering today! Reach out to the Career Center via email at careercenter@lawrence.edu or book an appointment by clicking HERE.

Click HERE to also learn more about the 3+2 engineering program at Lawrence.

Dennis Boakye ’26 is a junior 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.