Most natural resource jobs with just a B.S. are temporary or seasonal positions because of the nature of the job. It's not really a growing profession either. It's pretty much dependent upon people retiring or quitting. When I graduated, I learned that only about 1/3 find a long-term job right away. The rest have to go on and get an M.S. which, after 1 year, aggravated my anxiety and depression. I don't want to lose my passion for the environment either, and fear what continuing to pursue some higher degree would do... let alone competing with other desperate students for a job.

Although I may not be able to complete my Associate's Degree until I'm 29 or 30 at this point (unless I'm lucky... the program is competitive, but I'm an excellent student), becoming a Physical Therapist Assistant has a lot better job prospects: 100% of the previous 3 graduating classes (20 students) got a part-time or full-time position within the field within 6 months of graduating. Will it cost more money? Sure... but I'm working a temp-job right now (10 months) and making some money (not a lot). Hopefully by the end of the year, I'll be able to find something else, maybe through the temp-agency I'm with right now. I may be able to pay for at least some of my classes, and what debt I accrue wouldn't be any more than if I had finished the second year of my M.S. program.

Given my health struggles, I don't think being a "natural resource manager" or conservation scientist would benefit me... I've come to realize I don't like being "in charge," and most natural resource positions require some form of "leadership" which I do not enjoy. Plus, I'll earn just as much money as when I graduate with my Associate's Degree!