Dylan Mason

What did you enjoy most about your degree?

I enjoyed collaborating with people currently working in the ecology and conservation space. I found it captivating learning things that were being applied by industry experts in real time. I enjoyed conducting fieldwork and directly assisting conservation initiatives like the Bilby Breed-for-Release Program in Dubbo. 

What is your current job?

I currently work as a Graduate Ecologist at Biosis, an Australia-wide environmental consultancy firm. 

How did your Taronga Wildlife Conservation degree help you in applying for and doing your role?

It equipped me with technical and critical-thinking skills required to undertake fieldwork and compose reports structured around legislative frameworks. In particular, exercises where I was asked to create reports which deviated from the standard 'scientific report' format were beneficial. 

What do you hope to do in your future career?

I hope to continue in a consultancy role. I enjoy using my technical skills and understanding of legislative frameworks to direct developments towards outcomes that have both positive social and ecological impact.

What advice do you have for high school students looking to follow you in your study and career footsteps?

Go to your lectures and get involved with the people in your class. 8am lectures can be grim, but getting yourself there for them can often get you better access to your lecturer, giving you the chance to ask more questions because there are often fewer people around. It's also super important to collaborate with the people you study with. They can be a great asset and it can benefit everyone involved by having people to bounce ideas off, practice presentations or just chat about jobs you might find interesting.