11 answers
Jenna
Student
Saint Joseph
1
Question
Asked
2148 views
What advice do you have for switching careers/going back to school in late 20s?
I am 25 and have a job at a bank. I have some college credits but no degree. I am financially stable now and losing that to go to school full time is scary, but I am unfulfilled and not doing what I love. I know that I have more potential than where I am now. #careerswitch #backtoschool
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11 answers
Eliandra Vargas Machado
Product Support
4
Answers
São Leopoldo, State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
Updated
Eliandra’s Answer
I think it's amazing that you recognize that you have potential because you really do! And if you are dissatisfied with your current occupation, moving is not only an alternative, but the only one, this is how you need to see the situation. I can say for myself, I was in a "stable" job and I was in doubt if I should go for an internship, but this experience changed my life, and today I can say that I am starting my career with what I like. Don't give up on your dreams, they are worth it, no matter your age. The best age you have is this, the one you have now, take the opportunity to go in search of what will make you better in the future!
I love this answer Eliandra! I'm glad you're doing what you enjoy!
Chad Baucom
Gloria Ortiz
Instructional Designer
838
Answers
Irving, Texas
Updated
Gloria’s Answer
Hi Jenna,
It is never too late to look for something that you love. I am not sure if you are considering a career change with college or not. A college degree can help accelerate the change. Do you know what you are passionate about? Is there a college major that matches that passion? I want to be clear that college does not have to be some all-star, high priced university. These days any colleges are really equal in terms of giving you the knowledge that you need to change your career. I think college can create a route to that new job that nothing else can beat.
The last push to get my final college credits was at the age of 33. The biggest challenge of college at this age is the life that you already have. You have to find or make the time to get the college work done around having a job as well as possibly having a family. College is like having another job, depending on the amount of credits that you are taking at once. You have to be passionate about your major, because there will be times when you wonder why you did this. I went full time in the final push for my degree, which meant figuring out how to have a life and work around school. I did not have children to take care of. Going full time meant that I had to give up the social life. I was very driven to finish school, because not having a diploma had kept me from continuing my career during a downturn in the economy. In college, you have about the equivalent of reading a book a week and related papers and assignments to go with it. It's a lot to add to your life. Consider how much time you want to spend each week in school.
Overall, I found that having already entered the workforce was a relative advantage for me. My classmates were more than a decade younger than me and sometimes trying to figure out college for the first time. At my age, I had already learned time management techniques, how to prioritize my work, and was able to use some of my experiences to complete homework assignments.
I wish you luck on finding what you love to do. I do what I love and I consider it the greatest achievement of my life.
Gloria
It is never too late to look for something that you love. I am not sure if you are considering a career change with college or not. A college degree can help accelerate the change. Do you know what you are passionate about? Is there a college major that matches that passion? I want to be clear that college does not have to be some all-star, high priced university. These days any colleges are really equal in terms of giving you the knowledge that you need to change your career. I think college can create a route to that new job that nothing else can beat.
The last push to get my final college credits was at the age of 33. The biggest challenge of college at this age is the life that you already have. You have to find or make the time to get the college work done around having a job as well as possibly having a family. College is like having another job, depending on the amount of credits that you are taking at once. You have to be passionate about your major, because there will be times when you wonder why you did this. I went full time in the final push for my degree, which meant figuring out how to have a life and work around school. I did not have children to take care of. Going full time meant that I had to give up the social life. I was very driven to finish school, because not having a diploma had kept me from continuing my career during a downturn in the economy. In college, you have about the equivalent of reading a book a week and related papers and assignments to go with it. It's a lot to add to your life. Consider how much time you want to spend each week in school.
Overall, I found that having already entered the workforce was a relative advantage for me. My classmates were more than a decade younger than me and sometimes trying to figure out college for the first time. At my age, I had already learned time management techniques, how to prioritize my work, and was able to use some of my experiences to complete homework assignments.
I wish you luck on finding what you love to do. I do what I love and I consider it the greatest achievement of my life.
Gloria
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1340
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Jenna if your in a job that going no where for you, and looking to make a career change. You could leave that career and fall into whatever happens to come next, but that’s a job, and not a career path. Building a career takes focus, calculation, and skill, especially since the job market is so competitive these days. If you know your current gig isn’t working out for you, but aren’t sure of what comes next, my best advice is to do something small each day to attempt to figure out it out. Researching a career path on the internet that sounds interesting and take a class for a test drive.
THERES GOING TO BE SOME SACRIFICES
Anyone can make a career change, but it is rare to shift careers completely and come in at the level and salary you were previously (unless you were entry level before). You’ll have to start from the bottom and work your way up, just as if you were starting out right after college. Since you’re only in your MID TWENTIES, this could be good time to mix-it-up a little. Still, if you factor in the student loan/costs of school, a pay cut to change careers might be more economical. You may still have to make sacrifices, e.g. “side hustle” until your income matches your full-time pay.
BECOME YOUR CAREER AMBASSADOR
If you want to make the career change into doing something you love, you’re going to have to be your biggest cheerleader, brand advocate, and champion. If you’ve followed these steps and figured out what it is you want to do (for the next few years anyway), and it is something you are truly passionate about, you should be unafraid to promote the things you are doing to your friends, family, and network. It could be a great way to get discovered. Don’t be afraid to bring up your new passion in conversation with others, or on potential job interviews. Even if the job is “just to pay the bills,” employers want passionate, hard-working people. You never know when the job could lead to something else, or who you could meet through that opportunity. You just have to be willing to speak your passion.
RESEARCH YOUR CAREER CHANGE BEFOR YOU QUIT YOUR JOB
Going back to school requires a large investment of time and money, and it should only be undertaken if you’re moving toward a clear goal, not just away from an unsatisfying job. If you want a complete career overhaul, you should select a field that not only has great growth potential but that you are truly passionate about. Choose something that you are going to stick to through the end. Ask people who have the job you want what their backgrounds are and what they studied in school. If you can’t talk to them, talk to headhunters or even HR representatives in the field. Going back to school may be the right choice for you, but since education is so expensive, it’s worth shopping around a bit before you commit to a degree program.
RESEARCH THE UNIVERSITIES YOU’RE CONSIDERING BEFORE GOING BACK TO COLLEGE
Once you’ve decided to go back to college and you know how much you're willing to spend on an education, you need to carefully research different programs. Online degree programs are popular with nontraditional students because they offer remote learning options and flexible course schedules, but make sure the program you choose is accredited (whether it's an online or brick-and-mortar school). The most important factors in how much you can afford to pay for a bachelor's or graduate degree program are how much you will earn once you graduate and how much you can work during your education.
YOUR RESEME GOING TO NEED A MAKEOVER ALSO
Since many companies now accept applications online, your resume is possibly going to be the only thing that your potential employer knows about you before an interview. So you probably shouldn’t be using the same resume you made in your college capstone class. Follow these beginner’s tips for a quick update to the meat of your resume, but also make sure that you are tailoring your resume to each company! Most companies are looking for specific skills — for example, find and describe how you lead a project group that delivered great results, or how you promoted an event by engaging the community.
Clearly define your motivations for going back to school and know your long-term goals.
Consider alternatives to paying for a degree and see if those will get you where you want to go.
Do research about your future career prospects. Know what type of salary is realistic upon graduation – don't just look at high salaries for seasoned professionals.
Research different schools and ask the tough questions that matter.
Plan your long-term payment strategy and look for ways to minimize the cost of your education.
THERES GOING TO BE SOME SACRIFICES
Anyone can make a career change, but it is rare to shift careers completely and come in at the level and salary you were previously (unless you were entry level before). You’ll have to start from the bottom and work your way up, just as if you were starting out right after college. Since you’re only in your MID TWENTIES, this could be good time to mix-it-up a little. Still, if you factor in the student loan/costs of school, a pay cut to change careers might be more economical. You may still have to make sacrifices, e.g. “side hustle” until your income matches your full-time pay.
BECOME YOUR CAREER AMBASSADOR
If you want to make the career change into doing something you love, you’re going to have to be your biggest cheerleader, brand advocate, and champion. If you’ve followed these steps and figured out what it is you want to do (for the next few years anyway), and it is something you are truly passionate about, you should be unafraid to promote the things you are doing to your friends, family, and network. It could be a great way to get discovered. Don’t be afraid to bring up your new passion in conversation with others, or on potential job interviews. Even if the job is “just to pay the bills,” employers want passionate, hard-working people. You never know when the job could lead to something else, or who you could meet through that opportunity. You just have to be willing to speak your passion.
RESEARCH YOUR CAREER CHANGE BEFOR YOU QUIT YOUR JOB
Going back to school requires a large investment of time and money, and it should only be undertaken if you’re moving toward a clear goal, not just away from an unsatisfying job. If you want a complete career overhaul, you should select a field that not only has great growth potential but that you are truly passionate about. Choose something that you are going to stick to through the end. Ask people who have the job you want what their backgrounds are and what they studied in school. If you can’t talk to them, talk to headhunters or even HR representatives in the field. Going back to school may be the right choice for you, but since education is so expensive, it’s worth shopping around a bit before you commit to a degree program.
RESEARCH THE UNIVERSITIES YOU’RE CONSIDERING BEFORE GOING BACK TO COLLEGE
Once you’ve decided to go back to college and you know how much you're willing to spend on an education, you need to carefully research different programs. Online degree programs are popular with nontraditional students because they offer remote learning options and flexible course schedules, but make sure the program you choose is accredited (whether it's an online or brick-and-mortar school). The most important factors in how much you can afford to pay for a bachelor's or graduate degree program are how much you will earn once you graduate and how much you can work during your education.
YOUR RESEME GOING TO NEED A MAKEOVER ALSO
Since many companies now accept applications online, your resume is possibly going to be the only thing that your potential employer knows about you before an interview. So you probably shouldn’t be using the same resume you made in your college capstone class. Follow these beginner’s tips for a quick update to the meat of your resume, but also make sure that you are tailoring your resume to each company! Most companies are looking for specific skills — for example, find and describe how you lead a project group that delivered great results, or how you promoted an event by engaging the community.
Doc recommends the following next steps:
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1662
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Have you considered keeping your job at the bank and going to school part-time? I ask this because there's the possibility the bank offers tuition assistance (does it?) which would be a big plus, and, there's also the possibility you could go into your new career without changing employers! (depending on what it is you want to do). Also, financially, you'd be dollars ahead, although it would take a little longer.
And, if you take on-line classes, there's no worry about the commute time, rushing from work to school, etc.
As one who returned to school in my 50's, I was totally shocked by how much things had changed. I don't think you need to worry about that! Just remember to keep your eye on the prize. . . set the goal, and get it done!
wishing you the best!
Kim
And, if you take on-line classes, there's no worry about the commute time, rushing from work to school, etc.
As one who returned to school in my 50's, I was totally shocked by how much things had changed. I don't think you need to worry about that! Just remember to keep your eye on the prize. . . set the goal, and get it done!
wishing you the best!
Kim
Jeff Mabry
Software Executive
1
Answer
Oak Park, California
Updated
Jeff’s Answer
Hi Jenna - I'd never argue with anyone wanting to get a degree. I'm a big fan of continuing education and life-long learning. However, I'd suggest you go slow and first ask yourself first "what do I want to do with the degree? What value will it bring me etc.? I've often seen young professionals return to school mostly in an effort to exit the pain of the working world, but also return to an equally unfulfilling role. They're also often in an even worse spot when they return, because they've incurred a vast amount of school debt that locks them further into a career that's not fulfilling. I'd focus first on answering the question "what's my overall purpose" and once you've done that, figure out a career and education path that will align with that purpose. Going back part-time while working and "chipping away" at your degree might also be a good path? Good luck and glad to discuss further.
Simeon Snow
Risk Assurance
1792
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Simeon’s Answer
There are a lot of opportunities for evening, weekend, online, and community college classes. Try to grab as many easy credits as you can and find the quickest way to a degree, even if it's an associate degree. The biggest hurdle is finding the first new job in the new field you're considering. Look at some of the job openings for the career that you're considering and see what the minimum degree requirements are.
Jada Brown
Benefits Specialist
1
Answer
Chesapeake, Virginia
Updated
Jada’s Answer
Hi Jenna!
I was in the same boat. Let me start off by saying that it's never too late to find the career that you enjoy. I was a single mom of 2 and working full time so school definitely scared me as well. It seemed like a sacrifice at the time.
Your first step is figuring out what you want to do until retirement. What do you enjoy? Are you good with helping others? Are you good with numbers? This was probably the hardest decision for me. I was clueless.
After you figure out what it is that you enjoy, look for 100% online programs for that major. Make sure the school is accredited and do your own research. Online programs are designed to help people like us. Its definitely more convenient to get off of work, feed/bathe the kids, play a little bit, and then get to the school work when it's convenient. It is going to be a challenge in the beginning because you have to find a routine that fits your lifestyle. But just think of it this way...it's better to start late than to never start at all. We all deserve to do something we like and it's our choice!
Good luck!
Jada
I was in the same boat. Let me start off by saying that it's never too late to find the career that you enjoy. I was a single mom of 2 and working full time so school definitely scared me as well. It seemed like a sacrifice at the time.
Your first step is figuring out what you want to do until retirement. What do you enjoy? Are you good with helping others? Are you good with numbers? This was probably the hardest decision for me. I was clueless.
After you figure out what it is that you enjoy, look for 100% online programs for that major. Make sure the school is accredited and do your own research. Online programs are designed to help people like us. Its definitely more convenient to get off of work, feed/bathe the kids, play a little bit, and then get to the school work when it's convenient. It is going to be a challenge in the beginning because you have to find a routine that fits your lifestyle. But just think of it this way...it's better to start late than to never start at all. We all deserve to do something we like and it's our choice!
Good luck!
Jada
Wayne Archibald
Cybersecurity Associate Director here to share knowledge!
210
Answers
Silver Spring, Maryland
Updated
Wayne’s Answer
Hi Jenna! Starting college in your 20s is a very different experience than enrolling immediately after high school graduation. Yet going back to school as a nontraditional student is a trend that is actually on the rise. I actually worked for 4 years after high school before I went to college and I felt that the experience made me a more serious driven student.
Whether you are going back to explore personal interests or expand your knowledge, it is important to acknowledge that you have different needs, advantages and challenges as an adult learner. Here are five tips that can help make your college experience a positive one.
Leverage your self-knowledge as an asset. Many adult students find that experience – both personal and professional – is a real asset when returning to college. Understanding your strengths and desires makes it easier to clarify your goals and choose a degree program that can help you achieve your objectives. It also helps you stay the course when the going gets tough, and it can motivate you to commit to the study habits needed to succeed in your program.
Acknowledge that competing demands are real. Returning to college as an adult often means that you are studying while balancing other obligations. You may have a full-time job, a family, or other demands competing for your time and attention. Recognizing this can help you choose a program and school that is right for you. Flexibility, customization and quality are the keys. Choose a program that is designed to help older students succeed, including support for full-time students as well as those attending part-time
Use your motivations to succeed. Whether you are in a career you already love and want to expand your potential opportunities or you are looking to make a change, education can help. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, people who have a bachelor's degree earn 64% more per week on average than those with a high school diploma alone and are less likely to be unemployed. Taking the steps to expand your education, skill set and knowledge can pay off in terms of both career growth and professional development.
Select the classroom format that is right for you. Some learners want a local classroom where they can meet with other students and instructors face-to-face. For others, an online campus offers the flexibility to make pursuing a degree possible amid other obligations. Take some time to evaluate the environment that is right for your needs and then choose an accredited college that offers a degree in your area of interest or specialization.
You will need to carve out time. You will be busier than you think. During exam times, you will be really busy. Before committing to studies, have a serious look at your weekly calendar and have a think about when you will have free time to commit to studying. Many students head to university without putting thought into the amount of time it really takes to ensure you are reading the assigned texts, answering homework questions, studying for exams and writing essays. It will be busier toward the end of term or semester. Will you be able to ramp up the amount of time you can commit when needed? Ensure that you get in a good study habit and commit that time – which will help you out immensely.
Get to know your professors. It is remarkable how many students go through university and never have a one to one chat with their teacher. There are so many benefits to personal interactions with your professors. The main one? You figure out inside tips on how to ace their classes! If you are an online student, an email once every few weeks checking in is a great idea. For on-campus students, simply stay behind after class for an extra chat about the course content. 5 minutes is all it takes to give yourself an unfair advantage over your peers.
Take advantage of support services. Starting college in your 20s or going back to school later in life naturally brings up doubts and concerns. But there are numerous support services within the college environment designed to help you succeed. Financial aid advisors can help you create a plan to pay for your education. Academic advisors can work with yogu to develop a degree road map to achieve your goals within your desired time frame. While younger students may be unwilling or not ready to take advantage of these services, as an adult learner, your willingness to ask for help can make all the difference.
There is a lot to think about when considering whether to go to university in your 20s. Do you really want to start again from scratch? Are you inspired by the possibilities? Do you have the time? Are you up for the challenge? If you are on the fence because you feel like you will stand out like a sore thumb, do not stress! University was made for people like you and you will find many like minded people.
Good luck!
Whether you are going back to explore personal interests or expand your knowledge, it is important to acknowledge that you have different needs, advantages and challenges as an adult learner. Here are five tips that can help make your college experience a positive one.
Leverage your self-knowledge as an asset. Many adult students find that experience – both personal and professional – is a real asset when returning to college. Understanding your strengths and desires makes it easier to clarify your goals and choose a degree program that can help you achieve your objectives. It also helps you stay the course when the going gets tough, and it can motivate you to commit to the study habits needed to succeed in your program.
Acknowledge that competing demands are real. Returning to college as an adult often means that you are studying while balancing other obligations. You may have a full-time job, a family, or other demands competing for your time and attention. Recognizing this can help you choose a program and school that is right for you. Flexibility, customization and quality are the keys. Choose a program that is designed to help older students succeed, including support for full-time students as well as those attending part-time
Use your motivations to succeed. Whether you are in a career you already love and want to expand your potential opportunities or you are looking to make a change, education can help. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, people who have a bachelor's degree earn 64% more per week on average than those with a high school diploma alone and are less likely to be unemployed. Taking the steps to expand your education, skill set and knowledge can pay off in terms of both career growth and professional development.
Select the classroom format that is right for you. Some learners want a local classroom where they can meet with other students and instructors face-to-face. For others, an online campus offers the flexibility to make pursuing a degree possible amid other obligations. Take some time to evaluate the environment that is right for your needs and then choose an accredited college that offers a degree in your area of interest or specialization.
You will need to carve out time. You will be busier than you think. During exam times, you will be really busy. Before committing to studies, have a serious look at your weekly calendar and have a think about when you will have free time to commit to studying. Many students head to university without putting thought into the amount of time it really takes to ensure you are reading the assigned texts, answering homework questions, studying for exams and writing essays. It will be busier toward the end of term or semester. Will you be able to ramp up the amount of time you can commit when needed? Ensure that you get in a good study habit and commit that time – which will help you out immensely.
Get to know your professors. It is remarkable how many students go through university and never have a one to one chat with their teacher. There are so many benefits to personal interactions with your professors. The main one? You figure out inside tips on how to ace their classes! If you are an online student, an email once every few weeks checking in is a great idea. For on-campus students, simply stay behind after class for an extra chat about the course content. 5 minutes is all it takes to give yourself an unfair advantage over your peers.
Take advantage of support services. Starting college in your 20s or going back to school later in life naturally brings up doubts and concerns. But there are numerous support services within the college environment designed to help you succeed. Financial aid advisors can help you create a plan to pay for your education. Academic advisors can work with yogu to develop a degree road map to achieve your goals within your desired time frame. While younger students may be unwilling or not ready to take advantage of these services, as an adult learner, your willingness to ask for help can make all the difference.
There is a lot to think about when considering whether to go to university in your 20s. Do you really want to start again from scratch? Are you inspired by the possibilities? Do you have the time? Are you up for the challenge? If you are on the fence because you feel like you will stand out like a sore thumb, do not stress! University was made for people like you and you will find many like minded people.
Good luck!
Amy Pattenaude
Management
2
Answers
Ranger, Texas
Updated
Amy’s Answer
It is scary to take that leap but it's one you will not regret, for many reasons.
A) if your current position does not satisfy you then you're already spending too many days being miserable. Working to change that is a good thing.
B) I've never met anyone that said "I shouldn't have gone back to school what a waste of time ." And the longer you wait the harder it gets. I waited until my kids were grown not I'm finding it hard to make that final commitment!
C) Classes, courses, projects, groups, meetings, protests, experiences - all things that happen in college and all things that help shape us into the best version of ourselves. It will give you insight and time to figure out what will truly make you happy. And since we spend such a large portion of our lives working, it's better to find a career you love!
Research research research! Going to the wrong school is just as bad as having the wrong job!
Research: make a list of all careers you are interested in, find out what courses they have to complete and see if you can take one or two as electives to get a taste.
Always have a back up plan.
A) if your current position does not satisfy you then you're already spending too many days being miserable. Working to change that is a good thing.
B) I've never met anyone that said "I shouldn't have gone back to school what a waste of time ." And the longer you wait the harder it gets. I waited until my kids were grown not I'm finding it hard to make that final commitment!
C) Classes, courses, projects, groups, meetings, protests, experiences - all things that happen in college and all things that help shape us into the best version of ourselves. It will give you insight and time to figure out what will truly make you happy. And since we spend such a large portion of our lives working, it's better to find a career you love!
Amy recommends the following next steps:
Chad Baucom
Product Manager
3
Answers
North Salt Lake, Utah
Updated
Chad’s Answer
The background you gave for this question tells me that you already know the answer to your question, but you know the answer will be difficult. I've found in life that doing hard things that help you grow are always worth it. When you talk about your potential, it reminds me of a poem by John Whittier called Maud Muller. In it he says "Of all sad words of tongue or pen, the saddest are these, 'It might have been.'"
I felt the urge several years ago to go back to school for a graduate degree. I wasn't enjoying my career and desperately needed a pivot. However, I was making good money and had no debt besides a car loan. I'd already paid my way through an undergrad degree and a one-year graduate degree and I really didn't want to go back to school and get college debt for the first time. I finally decided to go back one year later than I should have. I was 30 years old, married, and had 3 kids. I have some college debt now, but I'm making more money than I previously did, and most important of all, I'm in a career I love! I'm so happy I went back to school.
I felt the urge several years ago to go back to school for a graduate degree. I wasn't enjoying my career and desperately needed a pivot. However, I was making good money and had no debt besides a car loan. I'd already paid my way through an undergrad degree and a one-year graduate degree and I really didn't want to go back to school and get college debt for the first time. I finally decided to go back one year later than I should have. I was 30 years old, married, and had 3 kids. I have some college debt now, but I'm making more money than I previously did, and most important of all, I'm in a career I love! I'm so happy I went back to school.
Kevin Hsu
FP&A
15
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Kevin’s Answer
I am a big fan of taking baby steps to overall achieve your goal of getting a college degree.
I am a big proponent of going to community college. It allowed me to work full time while taking 1-2 classes at night. This allows you to ease your way back into the college grind & schoolwork. As you build confidence, you can take on more classes & work towards your associate's degree! Also, community college is significantly cheaper and allows you to save up money before transferring.
With most community college programs, they have direct transfer programs with simple stipulations such as graduating with a certain GPA. Most of the state colleges you will be transferring to will accept all the credits. Most state schools allow part-time students so this give you the ability to continue working while taking classes. You may decide during your senior year to drop work and become a student full-time during your last year. This will allow you to do campus recruiting & focus on school full-time to get your degree & your next job!
Hope this helps & good luck! The journey is long but well-worth it in the long run from a personal & financial perspective!
I am a big proponent of going to community college. It allowed me to work full time while taking 1-2 classes at night. This allows you to ease your way back into the college grind & schoolwork. As you build confidence, you can take on more classes & work towards your associate's degree! Also, community college is significantly cheaper and allows you to save up money before transferring.
With most community college programs, they have direct transfer programs with simple stipulations such as graduating with a certain GPA. Most of the state colleges you will be transferring to will accept all the credits. Most state schools allow part-time students so this give you the ability to continue working while taking classes. You may decide during your senior year to drop work and become a student full-time during your last year. This will allow you to do campus recruiting & focus on school full-time to get your degree & your next job!
Hope this helps & good luck! The journey is long but well-worth it in the long run from a personal & financial perspective!