[jjgbirder]

I am looking for some reassurance, or hoping to hear from others who have gone through a similar experience. I graduated from Central Michigan University in 2014 with my B.S. Natural Resources. I had several temporary / seasonal positions then went on to pursue an M.S. degree (out-of-state) in 2015-16, but after 1 year things fell apart. I have now relapsed back into depression / anxiety (GAD/OCD), which first occurred in 2012.

I am now thinking, due to the difficulty in finding / competing for long-term or permanent positions in my field (natural resource management / conservation), that I should pursue a different career. Right now, I'm considering returning to school to get an Associate's Degree as a Physical Therapist Assistant (a career that's in higher demand; possibly fits my personality better).

My point:

Has anyone else had "second thoughts" as to their career choice, especially so soon after graduating? Perhaps because of changes in personality, related to the onset, persistence, or worsening of mental health issues?

[bornunderabadsign]

I never finished college because of my of an MI. I worked in fast food during and after my brief college career but moved on to retail work. Things were pretty good until my anxiety became worse forcing me to drop down into a less stressful and lower paying position. I then got a job in manufacturing which was considerably less stressful than retail work. I worked there until I got injured and then I worked in the office of said manufacturing plant until again my anxiety forced me to quit.

I am fine as long as I can work one-on-one with people and without much pressure from the higher ups to finish things in a quicker manner. I don't do well with deadlines or multitasking.

I wish I had finished my college education. I want to go back to try to get a degree or certification for something that I can do and that won't aggravate my anxiety.

For me it wasn't so much about second thoughts as it was about it was my only option.

[JustJace2u]

Heck, I'll be 43 in March and I'm STILL working on getting my Bachelors Degree completed. If I can do it, anyone can.

[Talthybius]

I have a huge story concerning me and education. I don't know if it is relevant. I started studying again at age 29.

Reading your story, it sounds reasonable to restart with the MSc. You aren't even really delayed age-wise. Well, maybe a bit.

Cannot you improve your chances with your current degree? How long an associate degree will take and how much will it cost you? Will you have better prospects with the new degree? I think you need to address these questions. It's a different story to return to college because you don't have a degree, and because you have a degree but cannot find a job.

[jjgbirder]

Originally Posted by Mr. Stranger

Cannot you improve your chances with your current degree? How long an associate degree will take and how much will it cost you? Will you have better prospects with the new degree? I think you need to address these questions. It's a different story to return to college because you don't have a degree, and because you have a degree but cannot find a job.

Most natural resource jobs with just a B.S. are temporary or seasonal positions because of the nature of the job. It's not really a growing profession either. It's pretty much dependent upon people retiring or quitting. When I graduated, I learned that only about 1/3 find a long-term job right away. The rest have to go on and get an M.S. which, after 1 year, aggravated my anxiety and depression. I don't want to lose my passion for the environment either, and fear what continuing to pursue some higher degree would do... let alone competing with other desperate students for a job.

Although I may not be able to complete my Associate's Degree until I'm 29 or 30 at this point (unless I'm lucky... the program is competitive, but I'm an excellent student), becoming a Physical Therapist Assistant has a lot better job prospects: 100% of the previous 3 graduating classes (20 students) got a part-time or full-time position within the field within 6 months of graduating. Will it cost more money? Sure... but I'm working a temp-job right now (10 months) and making some money (not a lot). Hopefully by the end of the year, I'll be able to find something else, maybe through the temp-agency I'm with right now. I may be able to pay for at least some of my classes, and what debt I accrue wouldn't be any more than if I had finished the second year of my M.S. program.

Given my health struggles, I don't think being a "natural resource manager" or conservation scientist would benefit me... I've come to realize I don't like being "in charge," and most natural resource positions require some form of "leadership" which I do not enjoy. Plus, I'll earn just as much money as when I graduate with my Associate's Degree!

[ken9018]

I don't think your age would be a factor. I'm in community college and I've ran into different ages sitting right in my classes. The oldest guy was in his sixties I believe. I'm not familiar with your job prospects as I'm cs major so I cant really give too much advice on that. I can say though continue doing your research on what job you may want and choose the option BEST for you. Good luck!

[Travelinglady]

Oh, yes, I had a student in her 60's who was going to seminary! 26 is not old at all. These days people are more likely to change careers for various reasons. And you're doing the right thing--checking the job market first.

[alicetailor]

There is no harm in switching your career if you are not happy with the existing one. Health should always come first.

I think you may feel "old" given your title, but really....you'll probably be in the middle of the pack if you attend community college. IME.