The response continues to Maggie's question about geologists and family life.
From an Australian industry geologist:
"In Australia most industry geologists work in remote areas, where all the mining and exploration activity is. However the majority of the population (and hence the universities and most student geologists) come from a few cities near the coast. So when a geologist gets a job in the mining industry they invariably have to leave what they know and go work "in the sticks," as we say. I have had to move away from established homes and friends and family to work in remote areas on several occasions now.
"From my experience it was tough for a short while, but that was mostly about my comfort zones, learning something totally new and not getting to celebrate the usual things (birthdays and weddings) as regularly: I am also a person for whom family is very important. My wife was in the same situation since we are both from Sydney. However we found that we created a new life for ourselves and found many new and really close friends that we treasure. We also see our families regularly and make the trips back for all the important milestones. We even took our children back to Sydney for their Christenings so that it could be a family celebration. We find that when we do make the trips back to family, we are welcomed more heartily and the time is a bit of a party for everyone. The distance also keeps us out of the minor family quarrels and that makes for better times all round.
"In summary, your career in geology will be one of the most rewarding things that could happen to you, and I highly recommend it. If your family is important to you, you will make the journeys and do what it takes to stay in touch. You will miss regular contact, but your new friends will certainly get you through. The benefits of expanding your horizons through travels and geological study will really enhance your life. And yes the worldwide geological community is sort of like a big family. I find that in my work I interact with geologists from all over the world, and our common interests make for immediate conversation, interaction and friendship."
This is your Guide again. If you have your own advice for Maggie, just add it using the "Readers Respond" form below.
