Critical Careers - Women Building Careers in Digital Infrastructure - Book - Page 36
Critical Careers
E A R LY C A R E E R
When you were younger, what did you
imagine your future might look like and how
does that compare to where you are now?
When I was younger, I was set on studying medicine and becoming a
doctor. That was the path I had worked towards all through school. I was
really focused on science and maths, and I had a lot of support around
me pushing me in that direction.
I actually applied to medical school, but I didn’t get in, which, looking
back, was a bit of a turning point. Because it’s so competitive, I had a
backup option, so I went on to study biological sciences instead. Even
though it wasn’t what I initially wanted, it gave me the space to step back
and think more broadly about what I wanted from a career.
During that degree, I started exploring different paths. I did a placement
year in conservation, specialised in ecology, and naturally became more
interested in sustainability. At that stage, it was less about a speci昀椀c
industry and more about the kind of work I wanted to do and the impact I
wanted to have.
Vanessa
Beal
SUSTAINABILITY ANALYST
34
Since moving into digital infrastructure, my mindset has shifted again. It’s
no longer just about 昀椀nding a speci昀椀c role, but about being in an industry
I 昀椀nd interesting and thinking about where I can grow within it, and what
I’ll enjoy most.
