I got my BA in Psychology last May. Throughout my undergrad education, I worked as a nanny. I didn't complete any internships because I didn't have time to work for free. Now I'm working on pre-requisites so that I can apply for a Master's program in Neuropsychology. I also want to apply for research positions and scholarship programs with government departments like the DOD and the FBI. I have no interest whatsoever in being a childcare worker forever, let's be clear on that.

My most recent nanny job, which I've had for over a year, has become too much. Too many hours, too much driving, and one of the children is Autistic, has daily therapy, and a LOT of intense meltdowns (I have several scars from this child.) I quit the job. I know I need to take better care of my mental health, which means I need to scale back my hours.

I thought that maybe this was my opportunity to enter the professional world and get relevant, hands-on working experience. I live in the middle of nowhere, and I thought maybe I could work from home. The trouble is, I've applied to dozens of jobs, and nobody will interview me because I don't have relevant experience. Nobody wants to hire someone who's been a nanny for five years. I'm frustrated and lost, and I can't afford to aim lower, working for minimum wage will not cover my bills (car, rent, phone).

I'm starting to wonder if I should seek a new nanny job, closer to home, with fewer hours, and try to do an internship on the side to get relevant experience, then apply for more professional jobs next year. I'm frustrated that I can't find anything. Do any of you who actually work in the professional world think this is a good idea? I just don't want to waste any time.

I'm an online student, so there aren't any on-campus opportunities for me to work. I'm currently building coding skills using Code School and data science skills using Coursera, hoping that those will help me find a job next year. I just don't know. I'm confused and lost, and all I want to do is study!