More and more jobs are "requiring" college degrees these days. But, every once in a while you'll come across an individual who has "made it" in a typically degreed field because he/she has real life experience or on-the-job training that makes him/her a very valuable workplace commodity. Steve Irwin, late of "Crocodile Hunter" fame, is one of these people.

Now, you won't typically see celebrity profiles on the Colleges site; but Steve-O bears a mention. He didn't have a college degree--bachelor's or otherwise. He had very practical, long-term, life experience and hands on training. This experience, rather than a certificate or diploma, helped him enter into a very prominant career in wildlife conservation and management.

By all accounts, the "Croc Hunter" was a success. Steve Irwin assisted the Australian government in its conservation efforts. He managed a zoological park. He explored, investigated and reported on all sorts of issues related to wildlife management and conservation. Steve also helped establish a non-profit organization dedicated to conservation. And, he even managed an appearance in a movie.

Were you or I upper level managers in any one of these areas today, we'd very likely expect a newcomer to provide us with a copy of a degree--very likely a graduate degree in zoology, wildlife management/conservation, or environmental science--or some other kind of formal credential before hiring him/her. Steve's accomplishments serve as a very valuable reminder, to me at least, that experience can be much more valuable in the workplace than any piece of paper.

For those interested in a career in wildlife conservation or management, consider volunteering at your local zoo or wildlife park/sanctuary. You're still very likely to need a degree when it comes time to find a paying job, but the experience you garner on-the-job will serve you well in the future!

To Steve Irwin, a salute. I and my children will miss your adventures.

Until next time!

Lynn Byrne

Preparing for college admissions? Trying to find direction? Need a little help with the planning? Check out my college planning series:

• College Planning Made Easy--the planning and preparation workbook for the take charge, college-bound student,
  
• Paying for College Made Easy--a college financing guide designed to assist students and families in preparing and planning for higher education expenses; and
  
• The Great Scholarship Search--my guide for students and parents researching and applying for scholarship funding.