Mid career switch anyone?

[101]

Hello all

I have been working in the banking industry for several years now and lately I have been getting the urge of changing my career option altogether.

I have been looking at psychology courses and early childhood education. As I know that the jobs in relation to these fields require professional qualifications, I have been pondering if it is feasible (time wise - ie: 3 - 4 years, cost of tuition fees etc) to go back to college and complete a second degree in a totally unrelated field.

Anyone out there whom might have experienced this or thoughts to share?

[Vulcanl]

How old are you?  Single/Married?  Main breadwinner of the household?  Financial situation (sufficient cushion to withstand decreased income post career change)?

[Old Mike]

If you are talking about full time study, unless you have a spouse to support you it is not possible. If you study part time and qualify before changing it is possible, but expect a salary drop when you do change.

[Possible]

Old Mike, of course it's possible without a supporting spouse. If you've accumalated enough savings, which can be topped up with part time work, then full time study is feasible.

I quit my (well-paid) job to retrain a decade ago. It was a tough decision, but in the end I wanted to try something new that I had a passion for.

Never looked back, even though the year of full time training was a financial drain and I was starting at the bottom of the ladder when I finished studying.

[Vulcanl]

Possible,

How old were you when you did this?

[1011]

Hello all

Thanks very much for the replies. I am nearing my 30s and I do have a spouse to support me, but yes, the financial drain would be inevitable hence wondering if all the 'trouble' would be worth it.

The thought of being stuck doing something that I do not enjoy for the rest of my life makes me shudder...

Welcome more experiences from everyone   Thanks again.

[Vulcanl]

30 is very young still...you did not mention children, so assuming you have none and you have a supporting spouse (financially and otherwise) a career change sounds like a realistic option.

Just be sure you are indeed passionate about your new career, and not just something you've 'thought about.'

The financial svcs industry is a well paying one and you don't want to kick yourself later on if the new career does not pan out from a fulfillment standpoint.

Much introspection is necessary on your part - only you can answer that question.

I wish you the best!

[10111]

Hi Vulcani

Thanks very much indeed for the advise. I know that there are a lot of issues I need to address and iron out before taking my next step, thanks again