<\/a>Down time while on field work in India. Visiting a few outcrops on motorbikes. \u00a92016 Sheree Armistead<\/p><\/div>\n
What’s fun?<\/b><\/p>\n
Field work and travel is what I find most fun. Getting to visit new places for work is always exciting (although usually exhausting, too). Travel is usually for either field work or conferences. Conferences are a great opportunity to meet other geologists and to present your research to a large audience. It\u2019s also a chance to see what other research is being done in your field.<\/p>\n
What’s challenging?<\/b><\/p>\n
Trying to get my head around a complex geological problem is always a challenge for me. So basically the start of any new project is challenging. There\u2019s so much reading that needs to be done before you can even begin to understand some of the geological problems. There are also complex analytical procedures (such as U-Pb isotopic dating) that we need to understand to be able to make our interpretations.<\/p>\n
What’s your advice to students?<\/b><\/p>\n
My advice would be to seek out and take up as many opportunities as you can, such as joining geological society committees, undertaking relevant internships\/vacation work, or getting involved in small research projects while an undergraduate. A lot of opportunities aren\u2019t advertised, so ask around if there\u2019s something specific you\u2019re interested in. Not only do these opportunities open your mind and allow you to learn more, but they also lead to stronger networks and potential job opportunities.<\/p>\n