From Zoology to Engineering: How Faith & Mentorship Led Peace to a UK PhD. Squiggly Career.

What happens when your degree doesn’t seem to lead anywhere — but you keep moving anyway? Is your career path feeling a bit "squiggly"? Do you feel stuck in a degree or a role that doesn't seem to align with your long-term vision? You aren't behind—you are becoming. In this powerful podcast conversation, I sit down with Peace, a UK-based PhD researcher whose journey spans Zoology, Natural Sciences, and Engineering. We talk about faith-led decisions, mentorship, imposter syndrome, and how non-linear career paths can still lead to meaningful success. This isn't just an academic discussion; it’s a masterclass in perseverance, the power of mentorship, and trusting the process when the path ahead looks confusing. Whether you are battling career "gremlins" (imposter syndrome), seeking clarity in your next professional move, or trying to balance your faith with your ambition, this episode is for you. Anchored on insights from Ikigai and The Squiggly Career, this episode explores: Navigating career confusion as a science graduate The reality of a non-linear "squiggly" career path. How to pivot into new sectors using transferable skills. The role of faith, prayer, and mentorship in professional growth. Moving past imposter syndrome and finding your identity beyond academic labels. Practical tips for anyone navigating an unclear career journey. Transitioning into a PhD in a different field Doing a PhD in the UK as an international student Faith, confirmation, and divine “coincidences” Why you don’t need to be an expert to move forward If you’re considering postgraduate studies, feeling stuck in your degree, or trying to reconcile faith with career decisions — this conversation is for you. Key Books Mentioned: The Squiggly Career by Helen Tupper & Sarah Ellis Atomic Habits by James Clear Give and Take by Adam Grant Connect with The Quiet Learner: Timestamps & Chapters 00:00 Introduction, Finding clarity in a confusing path 00:56 The struggle, Studying Zoology with no clear future 04:32 Prophetic connection, The power of mentorship and faith 10:32 The power of "beholding", Why you need to look up to those ahead 12:23 Breaking the cycle, How to pivot with transferable skills 18:27 "The Squiggly Career" in action, Transitioning to Engineering 20:07 Overcoming "Career Gremlins" and Imposter Syndrome 22:56 The reality of a PhD in the UK, Loneliness and balance 25:52 Ikigai and Purpose, Aligning work with meaning 29:10 Identity, Why your career doesn't define you 31:07 Final advice, Trusting God on an unclear journey #CareerGrowth #PhD #STEM #MentorshipMatters #ProfessionalDevelopment #CareerPivot #FaithInTheWorkplace #UKResearchers #TheQuietLearner #LifeScienceCareers #CareerTransition #PhDLife #FaithAndCareer #SquigglyCareer #Mentorship #AcademicJourney #PersonalDevelopment #TheQuietLearner