4 answers
Ashley
Student
Urbana, Illinois
1
Question
Asked
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What advice would you give someone who is returning to school after 4 years to pursue a career change?? #Spring25
I am currently a probation officer and have a master's in positive psychology, but I am returning to school to get my MSW and become a therapist.
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4 answers
Ashley Conway
Recruiter
2
Answers
Toledo, Ohio
Updated
Ashley’s Answer
Hi Ashley,
I've been through this myself, and I know you can do it too! Prioritizing yourself and your studies will make a huge difference. If you have the space, create a cozy spot just for studying and doing homework. Set a schedule and do your best to follow it. Keep everything organized with an agenda and calendar. Remember, you're doing what's best for your future and career. The hard work and learning might be challenging, but it's definitely worth it. Keep going, you're on the right path!
I've been through this myself, and I know you can do it too! Prioritizing yourself and your studies will make a huge difference. If you have the space, create a cozy spot just for studying and doing homework. Set a schedule and do your best to follow it. Keep everything organized with an agenda and calendar. Remember, you're doing what's best for your future and career. The hard work and learning might be challenging, but it's definitely worth it. Keep going, you're on the right path!
Pradyumna Agrawal
Consulting services
5
Answers
Fairfax, Virginia
Updated
Pradyumna’s Answer
Hi Ashley, That is a great decision to return to school and pursue a career that is better aligned with your talents and long term goals! A lot of people choose to do this and you are not alone. I would recommend that you identify specific job profiles you would like to target when you graduate, and get an understanding of the skills those jobs entail, so that you can focus your efforts accordingly while at school. In my case as well, worked for two years as an Engineer, and then decided to go back to school for my MBA. I found that my work experience was very helpful in helping me focus on what is important for my future, and to pursue the curriculum in a constructive manner.
Alex Davis
Human Resources Strategy
7
Answers
Akron, Ohio
Updated
Alex’s Answer
Sounds like you already have clear career goals. Some additional things to consider: 1. Clarify Your Goals
Define what you want to achieve with your new degree or training—be specific about your target roles or industries.
Set short- and long-term goals to keep yourself motivated and focused.
Leverage Your Experience
Identify transferable skills from your previous work or life experiences (e.g., communication, project management, leadership).
Highlight these strengths in your coursework, networking, and when applying for internships or jobs.
Build a Support Network
Connect with classmates, professors, and career advisors early on.
Seek out mentors—people who have made similar transitions can offer valuable guidance and encouragement 1.
Supplement Your Formal Education
Take advantage of workshops, seminars, and online resources
Pursue internships, part-time roles, or volunteer opportunities in your new field to gain hands-on experience and build your resume 3.
Define what you want to achieve with your new degree or training—be specific about your target roles or industries.
Set short- and long-term goals to keep yourself motivated and focused.
Leverage Your Experience
Identify transferable skills from your previous work or life experiences (e.g., communication, project management, leadership).
Highlight these strengths in your coursework, networking, and when applying for internships or jobs.
Build a Support Network
Connect with classmates, professors, and career advisors early on.
Seek out mentors—people who have made similar transitions can offer valuable guidance and encouragement 1.
Supplement Your Formal Education
Take advantage of workshops, seminars, and online resources
Pursue internships, part-time roles, or volunteer opportunities in your new field to gain hands-on experience and build your resume 3.
Sahil Rupani
Auditor
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Sahil’s Answer
Hi,
I've been through a very similar experience. Ashley Conway's answer is correct, and I have a few additional pieces of advice that may help you as well. One thing I noticed is that going back to studying and doing assignments, projects, etc. feels different than it initially did. It may take some time to get back into the groove of things and you may find what worked before doesn't necessarily work now since you've grown and changed since you last were in school. Be patient with yourself while finding what works now and give yourself grace (especially in the first year if things don't automatically click).
Continuing despite your circumstances will be what ultimately helps and don't be afraid to ask for help when you can't do something yourself (although try it yourself first - you may surprise yourself). That's what people who end up successful do. Keep going and you got this!
I've been through a very similar experience. Ashley Conway's answer is correct, and I have a few additional pieces of advice that may help you as well. One thing I noticed is that going back to studying and doing assignments, projects, etc. feels different than it initially did. It may take some time to get back into the groove of things and you may find what worked before doesn't necessarily work now since you've grown and changed since you last were in school. Be patient with yourself while finding what works now and give yourself grace (especially in the first year if things don't automatically click).
Continuing despite your circumstances will be what ultimately helps and don't be afraid to ask for help when you can't do something yourself (although try it yourself first - you may surprise yourself). That's what people who end up successful do. Keep going and you got this!