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Letter: Letters : . . . . .

Published 21 February 1998

From James Thorne

Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Manchester

Harris made out that all graduate scientists are in great demand and are
deciding to go into postgraduate study instead of commerce by choice. This is a
just comment for those reading IT, engineering or biochemistry. However if you
are unfortunate enough to have studied other scientific subjects, further study
is often the only option.

I am by definition a high flyer (30 UCAS points, an upper second-class degree
and a Masters), yet potential employers show little interest. This is not
because I am inarticulate, or lack interpersonal skills or an understanding of
industry, but because of my degree subject—oceanography. Like my
colleagues in environmental science and geology, I have great difficulty moving
into technical or management posts.

Issue no. 2122 published 21 February 1998

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