The Skidmore College Career Development Center believes that the principals of the Chaos Theory of Careers to be most applicable for liberal arts students in the current economic climate. In this model, career development is recognized as a dynamic system characterized by complexity, interconnectedness, and susceptibility to change.

The following is part of the CDC’s Encouraging Stories Series featuring members of the Class of 2009.  During the last major economic downturn, these individuals exhibited these characteristics as they navigated the early stages of their own careers. Below are stories and advice in their own words.

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In what ways has your career path since Skidmore been non-linear? How did your Skidmore experience inform this path? 

I started out with an interest in art history and art conservation. I took chemistry courses and decided to jump into a chemistry major. 

What kinds of knowledge or skills did you unexpectedly use to navigate a difficult economic period? 

My work at the forensic laboratory is considered "essential" due to our role in public safety. 

What insights or advice do you have for others with similar backgrounds, or pursuing a similar path? 

Continue to advance yourself and gain skills. The world of science is quite varied and broad in career paths. Most of the chemistry jobs are not necessarily "wet" chemistry bench work. 

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