05 May 2021

Now if you didn’t already think so, your post-school journey is anything but linear. Meaning, you’re quite likely going to have many jobs in different careers throughout your life. 

From a 22-year-old that has had nine jobs in five different industries, I think it’s clear to say that it takes a while to find something that you have your heart set on if you’re struggling to figure out what to do (and it is so fine if you are).

A prime example, who knows a thing or two about changing careers, is the extraordinary Dr Karl. Aside from being a science communicator, he has had a number of professions in his lifetime and has become an Australian household name. 

 

The youngins may know him for his funky t-shirts and booming TikTok account but take one look at the bloke and you can tell he’s got more than one story to tell ya! Let’s take a look at his lengthy repertoire and what careers you should consider throughout your lifetime:

Scientist

In 1968, Karl completed a Bachelor of Science majoring in physics. In 1980, he was awarded a Masters in Biomedical Engineering.

After graduating his first degree at 19, Karl took up a job as a physicist, testing the strength of steel in his hometown of Wollongong, that was to be used for Melbourne’s West Gate Bridge. After they asked him to fake the test results, he decided to resign - THE. MAN.

In the early 1980’s, he worked for Fred Hollows as his Masters of Biomedical Engineering allowed him to design a machine that picked up signals off the human retina to diagnose certain eye diseases. Crazy stuff!

If you have a passion for science, Dr Karl has definitely hit his mark and the scope of what is achievable for a career in science. He also advocates for climate change! We love a man who cares for our planet.

Author

Thinking of writing a book or two? Or maybe 47? You heard that right - throughout Dr Karl’s career, he has written 47 books based on how great science is and his curiosities.

He’s got a few that play on names such as 50 Shades of Grey Matter, Game of Knowns and House of Karls (we love a pop culture and science crossover).

 

You may think you need a pre-existing career in becoming an author, but the truth of the matter is, if you love writing in any form or genre, you could end up publishing loads of books too!

Physician

Dr Karl studied a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery in 1986 (an 18-year gap from his first degree, there is clearly no age limit to studying!) at the age of 32, where he went onto being a medical doctor at a number of children's hospitals around Sydney.

While there is a lot of study involved prior to becoming a physician, just know that if you’re up for a challenging yet rewarding career change, becoming a doctor is definitely one of them!

Presenter

If you have the wits and humour like Dr Karl, maybe a job in presenting is up your alley?

Dr Karl presented his first television series in 1985 and appeared on morning talk shows about all things science. It only got bigger and better since then, holding a morning weekday spot on Triple J once a week, his podcast and writing in magazine columns every now and then. He’s now taken a turn to the socials, specifically TikTok (we are forever grateful) to answer all our burning questions about, well, life!

Above all things, Dr Karl has also worked a few odd jobs between careers, such as a filmmaker, car mechanic, TV weatherman, roadie and taxi driver. Absolute madness! I want Dr Karl’s resume.

If you’re keen to know more about Dr Karl’s wisdom on the world, check out his What To Ask The Man Who Knows Everything webinar at the Year13 Expo on May 19th. You can write to us to get your questions about the universe answered!