[bpforever1]

After not being in school for about 17 years, I have decided to return to grad school and get a masters in science. The field I want to pursue is very competitive, but my grades from undergrad are stellar. I just need to volunteer and keep on working until I get in hopefully. I don't know how I am going to explain my illness which has played a part in my work history. Also, I have to explain my interest in the field which I will look into more seriously. So, it will take me until next year to gain some volunteer experience. I am old though but still can learn. I hope to make it again!!

[WastingAsparagus]

If you don't mind answering - what field of science are you referring to?

[bpforever1]

Yes, it is in biology and involves counseling. My undergrad degree was in biochemistry. I graduated with honors ,and I also have a professional healthcare degree. However, It is one of the most competitive fields right now. I am not 100 percent confident I will get into a program, but will try my best. I am planning to volunteer for a suicide hotline to gain experience in helping individuals at risk. I am also going to continue to do my best at my job until I get in. I contacted someone in the field who is an expert, but am waiting for a response. I would like to talk to her to gain more info about the field. I feel great and am stable. I got sick while getting my professional degree but somehow finished. I could not practice though because of instability and will have to address this. I am doing really well now and am really stable. I am working and doing well. I feel great. And, I want to do more with my life and contribute to society somehow. I feel I can do more than what I'm doing now. I cannot have done this ten years ago so now is my time. Thank you for asking!

[WastingAsparagus]

That is cool. I am almost finished with my MA and I can say that it definitely has opened up career opportunities for me that I wouldn't have considered previously. I would say if you're really passionate about it and can handle the coursework, then go for it!

[bpforever1]

Thank you so much!! I really appreciate your support. Yes, I have not been in class for awhile, but have passed the top level of East Asian language exam recently. So, my brain is still working ok. I think I can handle the classes after being like a zombie and barely passing my classes and licensing exams, I can handle a masters in science. I am going to take some classes prior to entering the masters program to keep me on top of things. Or, I might just study stuff on my own, instead of wasting money. I will get some textbook and some workbooks. I like studying on my own so may be this is best.

[bpforever1]

I'm going to take some online courses for free in the area I'm interested in, and hopefully apply this year for next year's entering class. I will see if I can gather all the necessary prerequisites until then. I have until this December to apply so I have some time. I am so excited!! I have so much to do but will be happy doing it. I will volunteer still even if it does not make this year's cut off and see if I can finagle it and say something about it in my interviews if I get any. I'm crossing my fingers!!

[RoxanneToto]

If you feel you can handle it, go for it! I really hope it works out for you

[hvert]

That is such an awesome plan!

[Travelinglady]

Good for you!

[bpforever1]

I asked the admissions offices of the schools I'm interested about my background. I had to explain about my illness given the gaps in my resume. I will see what they say. I'm not sure how they will respond but am hoping for the best.

[gina_re]

Good luck!!

[bpforever1]

I received a reply from one of the program directors!! I am really excited. I was thinking although I may not get accepted into the program, I will be ok with the job I have now. It is very nice they replied though!! I am touched.

[bpforever1]

I'm thinking of NOT applying because of the debt, short-term career outlook since I'm old, and too much stress. At least, I went through the process of the possibility of pursuing it. But, I like where I am and will do things that are doable. I am thinking I won't re-visit this topic anymore and even if I do, I don't have any regrets about not pursuing grad school. Sometimes, I feel I should be satisfied with what I have and am. I am NOT earning much but am happy and healthy. This perspective is more important to me than pursuing a lofty goal which could harm my health and outlook.

[AliceKate]

I know what you mean. I'm in my 30s and decided to study again. You're right, it's a lot of stress (depending on the field of course), though at least in my country, I don't really pay for it.

[bpforever1]

Yes, I'm thinking of doing medical translations and medical writing. This is more in tuned with my background than re-inventing the wheel. I was doing translations without a CAT tool but think it is time to invest in one. Also, I'm thinking of getting a certificate for writing to help me polish my writing and make contacts. I like my job now but don't earn much so I want to earn extra money some how. I think my plan is more feasible than going to grad school.

[AliceKate]

Yes, sounds like a good plan to me. I wish you the best of luck and that you polish your writing. There's nothing like a well-written translation <3