What to do, what to do?

[meena]

I never thought I was going to have go back to career work. DH seemed set in his career path, and I have been committed to staying at home to educate our children and just overall manage our life and home since DH is away from home a lot for work. Over the past year our circumstances have changed to the point that I think I'm going to need to go back to work--not just at a job to make extra money but in a career that will help support our family long-term.

 

So my big dilemma right now is what do I do? Do I go back into teaching? I taught for 3 years before quitting to stay at home with the kids. That was 12 years ago, and I don't miss the classroom at all. For numerous reasons (many coming from my knowledge and experiences related to homeschooling), I would have a hard time returning to a school setting without being jaded and/or extremely frustrated. The local districts require 3 professional references from the past year to apply for any classroom positions (including substitutes), so if I do give in and go back to the classroom, I'll almost certainly need to get my Master's first as way to establish current experience and references. I've thought about a Master's in either Reading or Gifted Ed. as possibilities, since they seem to be fields that could possibly lead to jobs that are a little more "outside the box".  

 

Years ago I was accepted into a Master's in Library Science program, so going back in that direction might be an option. But I've heard the job prospects for MLIS grads are terrible, and I can't take the chance of spending the money on a Master's only to be unable find a job. 

 

Or should I just completely start over and get a Bachelor's degree in some totally unrelated field? One of DH's co-workers researched jobs for his wife that would yield the highest paying job in the shortest amount of time and then had his wife pick one of the options for her career path. She chose being a physical therapy assistant. Should I just choose something that in the end will yield job security and forget about actually liking the job? There's a part of me that thinks that is terrible, but another part of me is like, well, I don't want to go back to work at any job, so does it really matter what I choose? I just need to suck it up and do what I need to do. Forget about liking it, right?

 

So, anyone want to do some career and life planning for me? Or have any sage words of advice or experience? If it makes any difference, I don't have any current student loan debt but would be using loans to fully fund Education 2.0.

[Catwoman]

In a perfect world, what career would you choose for yourself?

[Catwoman]

One of DH's co-workers researched jobs for his wife that would yield the highest paying job in the shortest amount of time and then had his wife pick one of the options for her career path.

OK, am I the only one who finds that to be incredibly creepy and controlling?

[BrookValley.]

OK, am I the only one who finds that to be incredibly creepy and controlling?

 

Nope. You're not the only one.

[Arctic Bunny]

I hear ya. I just spent an entire evening looking at courses, trying to decide what I want to be when I grow up..... And no luck. We move a lot, to small towns where there aren't a lot of options. So if I pick something that I could work at here, will it be a waste when we move in a couple of years? It's hard when you don't have a passion....

[meena]

In a perfect world, what career would you choose for yourself?

 

Stay at home mom/teacher. Unfortunately, the pay is terrible.

[Catwoman]

Stay at home mom/teacher. Unfortunately, the pay is terrible.

:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

[meena]

OK, am I the only one who finds that to be incredibly creepy and controlling?

Nope, I couldn't believe it when I found out why the wife chose what she was going to do.

[JBJones]

OK, am I the only one who finds that to be incredibly creepy and controlling?

 

No, you're definitely not alone.

[Momof3littles]

I'm not clear on whether you personally have any interest in becoming a physical therapist assistant.  It doesn't sound like it, but if it is something you are considering, physical therapy on the whole has good job prospects, but it is tough on your body at times, particularly as you age or if you are not in decent physical condition to begin with.  If you are actually remotely interested in it, I would spend time volunteering and observing in different settings: outpatient, skilled nursing, hospital, etc. because different settings have very different demands.  For physical therapists, hours of observation are frequently required for admission, and I assume PTA programs are similar.  Different settings also have different pros and cons in terms of flexibility, hours, etc.  For example, outpatient often requires some evenings.  Hospitals often expect PTs and PTAs to do one weekend per month or similar.  I don't think a husband pushing his wife into that field because of employment prospects is wise at all.  That seems like a recipe for resentment and burnout.  Healthcare can be emotionally and physically draining at times, and having someone push you into it is not a good idea.  There are boards to study for, unpaid internships, etc, all of which is more tolerable if you are highly motivated by your passion for that field, and a real slog if it isn't your calling, I imagine.

 

eta: before choosing something, would you consider volunteering or observing?  I pretty much plan to strongly encourage or require my kids to do so.  I think it can be eye opening about the pros and cons of each profession, and I think that's important before you invest large sums of money in a career prospect that a student may only have a vague sense of.  Moreover, that observing or volunteering may help with admissions, professional networking, choosing a program, etc. and that's incredibly valuable as well.

[Happy]

I consider teaching at any level to be a safe career. You can get a job in any city or town--eventually--there are retirement benefits after a few years and a fairly predictable schedule.

 

Office type work is good, as well. My sis in law went back to school for an accounting degree. Now she oversees a school districts finances in a small town. There are lots of compliances rules and regs so she stays challenged.

 

As for me, I couldn't see doing any job that I didn't like for very long. I could (and have) clean out stalls or kennels, work face to face with people (bank teller, photographer, sales person) or mow lawns for a living...I would go quietly bonkers looking at numbers all day long. Maybe not quietly....

 

Could you try out a few jobs by doing temp work for a while? Just to get yourself back in the game?

 

For my post-homeschooling career, I tried writing and would have starved if I had to depend on that. :) And now real estate....I'm making decent dollars...more each year I'm in business. Is it challenging? Yes. Somedays is just plain hard. I don't have a college degree but this career lets me use all my training and talents from my previous careers/jobs.

 

You'll find the path--just keep looking.

[mommymonster]

I would ask myself two questions: (i) How much money do you need to make; and (ii) how quickly do you need to start generating money?

 

If you need to make some money immediately, I'd go into an education-related field, like tutoring, a teaching aide or teaching at a private school.  I wouldn't go for your library science degree. Our school district fired all of our school librarians in a bid to save money. We have one librarian in our entire district, and the classroom management is done by educational aides. Other districts have followed suit.

 

If you would need more money than the education field would generate, I would go back to work immediately and then start school in the evenings. 

 

It's super important that you do the math to figure out how much more you are going to make with a sparkly-new degree than to go back into the education field. I have a friend who put herself $60,000 in debt to fund a social work degree. While I think social work is a noble enough profession, it makes about $25,000 per year. She is really struggling to pay back that debt. 

[Desert Rat]

I was thinking about this recently, too. 

The easiest thing for me to do would be to take the few classes required and go into classroom teaching. I got sick to my stomach at the thought. No kidding. But, I could go back and take more classes and go into SpEd or be a reading specialist. That would be better. 

I almost wish I had continued on my first career path I chose: accounting. But, nooooo, I had to go into the humanities. Pfft. My dream job would be a professional organizer. 

Medical fields are very portable. Computers are as well. Anything in those fields interest you? 

Is there something that you're interested in that can be done with just a certification program instead of a degree? 

 

[Catwoman]

I hear ya. I just spent an entire evening looking at courses, trying to decide what I want to be when I grow up..... And no luck. We move a lot, to small towns where there aren't a lot of options. So if I pick something that I could work at here, will it be a waste when we move in a couple of years? It's hard when you don't have a passion....

Maybe you could choose something that would allow you to work online from home? That way, you'd still have the job even if you moved.

[heartosunshine]

I would ask myself two questions: (i) How much money do you need to make; and (ii) how quickly do you need to start generating money?

 

If you need to make some money immediately, I'd go into an education-related field, like tutoring, a teaching aide or teaching at a private school.  I wouldn't go for your library science degree. Our school district fired all of our school librarians in a bid to save money. We have one librarian in our entire district, and the classroom management is done by educational aides. Other districts have followed suit.

 

If you would need more money than the education field would generate, I would go back to work immediately and then start school in the evenings. 

 

It's super important that you do the math to figure out how much more you are going to make with a sparkly-new degree than to go back into the education field. I have a friend who put herself $60,000 in debt to fund a social work degree. While I think social work is a noble enough profession, it makes about $25,000 per year. She is really struggling to pay back that debt. 

 

I agree.

I'm currently doing a certificate program at the local community college because of time & money. I need a good job relatively quick. I'd love to go back for an advanced degree but that's just not an option for me right now. I'm okay with that. I like the classes I've taken so far and, while it may not be my dream career, I think I'll be reasonably happy.

[meena]

Momof3littles--I'm not necessarily interested in PT/PTA specifically. I have thought about healthcare jobs in general, since I know there is a lot of job security there. Also, the local community college has several relatively inexpensive programs that lead to entry into healthcare positions, so it could be an option. I appreciate your input. I agree with what you said about motivation. I have been wondering if maybe I'm being too idealistic in wanting a job that I truly care about. But it's hard when what I truly want to do probably isn't going to work out.

[Ripley]

If I had no real direction I desired to return to or too, and I was more or less resigned to the fact that I had to go back into SOME career - ANY career, it wouldn't bother me if someone gave me a short list to choose from. Doesn't matter if it was my husband, my dad, or the guy that sells me tamales. If I didn't really care or didn't really know where to start, there's no real need for me to infer any deep meaning to someone who might just be trying to help in the best way he knows how. Men problem solve, it seems like an innocent enough way for a husband to think he's helping his wife narrow down the possibilities.

 

Or maybe it's just me.

(I'll take it though. Why assume the worst about people/situations we don't know well?)

Plus, if I don't care then I genuinely do not care LOL. If it's "just a job I'm working" and not anything I seek or expect to see fulfillment from, then it may as well be something that best benefits the family. I can work 12 hour days slinging food at Waffle House or I can work 6 hour days doing physical therapy and earn the same or more. Doesn't matter who comes up with the idea, I'm on board with it!

 

I wouldn't return to teaching, but I might consider going back to it for a few years while earning a graduate's in admin.  Do you have any interest in that side of the school system, perhaps where you're more likely to see and promote the changes you'd like to see? My friend homeschooled for eight years and is now a school principal. She's walked both sides of the divide and is doing an amazing job integrating the best of both worlds. She plans to open her own private school in the next five years. There is also non-traditional teaching, like K12 or online public schools. Not sure it'd be a whole lot better than a bona fide classroom but it wouldn't be any worse as far staying home and homeschooling go.

 

Where are your interests, talents, skills?

 

ETA: I retired last year but if I was re-entering the workforce I'd consider dental hygienist. I'd have to get over my issue of people's mouths ;) but the ones I know say they love the relatively short time it takes to enter the field and that they're not taking on the debt of a 4-year degree to secure a livable, decent income.  I hear it's somewhat flexible, which is also desireable. And even in a bad economy most people today consider dental health a need/necessity, and not an extra - that could mean it'd be a relatively stable job, too.

 

 

 

 

[Kathryn]

If you have an option to do something you'd like over something you might hate just to make more money, I'd go with the former. DH went with the quick education/more money so I could get through school to do what I wanted, then he was going to figure out what he wanted and go to school. I got pregnant halfway through my masters and he's miserable. It's just not in the cards for him to go back.

[meena]

I agree.

I'm currently doing a certificate program at the local community college because of time & money. I need a good job relatively quick. I'd love to go back for an advanced degree but that's just not an option for me right now. I'm okay with that. I like the classes I've taken so far and, while it may not be my dream career, I think I'll be reasonably happy.

 

That is where I'm at right now. I need to balance time and money invested with needing to get on with life. I just don't know at this point what I can be reasonably happy with and don't want to waste time or money as I try to figure it out. 

 

Would you mind sharing what program you are in? 

[LLMom]

what about K12 teacher?  I think you can work mostly from home.  Tutoring is another option as well as teaching at a homeschool coop or hybrid school.  

[Momof3littles]

Momof3littles--I'm not necessarily interested in PT/PTA specifically. I have thought about healthcare jobs in general, since I know there is a lot of job security there. Also, the local community college has several relatively inexpensive programs that lead to entry into healthcare positions, so it could be an option. I appreciate your input. I agree with what you said about motivation. I have been wondering if maybe I'm being too idealistic in wanting a job that I truly care about. But it's hard when what I truly want to do probably isn't going to work out.

 

If you have an interest in healthcare, try observing or volunteering in a few settings.  Sometimes people are unaware of positions in healthcare that are less known than nursing, for example.  If you are interested in something less clinical, you might find a good fit there.

 

If you tell us things you like already, maybe we can toss out professions you could explore further. 

 

Some medical programs have good security, some have less security than you'd think.  Many require shiftwork, especially if you are a new grad, so that's another thing to consider.  Are you willing to do things like work 2nd or 3rd shift, because in healthcare, that will narrow your options.  If you aren't willing to do shiftwork or work weekends, some fields will be less doable, especially as a new grad.

 

Do you like working with people in general?  Would you prefer more of a desk job or something more hands on?  That might help us make suggestions if you are looking for some ideas.

[meena]

I consider teaching at any level to be a safe career. You can get a job in any city or town--eventually--there are retirement benefits after a few years and a fairly predictable schedule.

 

Office type work is good, as well. My sis in law went back to school for an accounting degree. Now she oversees a school districts finances in a small town. There are lots of compliances rules and regs so she stays challenged.

 

As for me, I couldn't see doing any job that I didn't like for very long. I could (and have) clean out stalls or kennels, work face to face with people (bank teller, photographer, sales person) or mow lawns for a living...I would go quietly bonkers looking at numbers all day long. Maybe not quietly....

 

Could you try out a few jobs by doing temp work for a while? Just to get yourself back in the game?

 

For my post-homeschooling career, I tried writing and would have starved if I had to depend on that. :) And now real estate....I'm making decent dollars...more each year I'm in business. Is it challenging? Yes. Somedays is just plain hard. I don't have a college degree but this career lets me use all my training and talents from my previous careers/jobs.

 

You'll find the path--just keep looking.

 

Thank you for your encouragement! 

 

I've thought about accounting or tax work but I'm not sure how suited I am to either of those. I'm an introvert but I typically prefer my quiet solitude to involve words rather than numbers. :) Temping is a great idea, both for career exploration and building professional connections.

[meena]

what about K12 teacher?  I think you can work mostly from home.  Tutoring is another option as well as teaching at a homeschool coop or hybrid school.  

 

I actually started an application to teach for FLVS but couldn't finish since they also require 3 current professional references . I've heard that job security can be iffy and the workload is crazy (like each teacher is responsible for responding to student questions 12 hours a day and manages around 200-250 students). Being at home is a great perk, though, so once I can get some currency I would consider at least trying it .

[meena]

Where are your interests, talents, skills?

 

ETA: I retired last year but if I was re-entering the workforce I'd consider dental hygienist. I'd have to get over my issue of people's mouths ;) but the ones I know say they love the relatively short time it takes to enter the field and that they're not taking on the debt of a 4-year degree to secure a livable, decent income.  I hear it's somewhat flexible, which is also desireable. And even in a bad economy most people today consider dental health a need/necessity, and not an extra - that could mean it'd be a relatively stable job, too.

 

 

If you have an interest in healthcare, try observing or volunteering in a few settings.  Sometimes people are unaware of positions in healthcare that are less known than nursing, for example.  If you are interested in something less clinical, you might find a good fit there.

 

If you tell us things you like already, maybe we can toss out professions you could explore further. 

 

Some medical programs have good security, some have less security than you'd think.  Many require shiftwork, especially if you are a new grad, so that's another thing to consider.  Are you willing to do things like work 2nd or 3rd shift, because in healthcare, that will narrow your options.  If you aren't willing to do shiftwork or work weekends, some fields will be less doable, especially as a new grad.

 

Do you like working with people in general?  Would you prefer more of a desk job or something more hands on?  That might help us make suggestions if you are looking for some ideas.

 

I'm embarrassed to say I don't really know my talents and skills, at least any that translate to anything marketable. I am good at reading, researching, explaining, and listening--basically the same types of skills as every other unemployed Humanities major.  :lol: I'm a decent writer, but I've found that I can't handle the pressure of creating on demand. In previous jobs I've taught Language Arts, managed literacy grants for a library, graded tests online (very repetitive but didn't drive me too crazy), tutored elementary students, worked with a curriculum publisher to align with state standards and write new content to fill gaps, and working in the YMCA child watch area. I'm a hard worker but I'm currently more committed to my family than my job so I don't want to go into a field that expects my life to revolve around it. I also did a lengthy stint in retail while in college.

 

I do like working with people; I'm a helper. But I'm also an introvert so too much people-time can be exhausting. I'm better with one on one or small group situations vs. big groups. Most of the work I've done is with children but I don't think I'm naturally a "kid person". I'm okay with desk or hands-on. I'm also okay with shiftwork and flexibility. My mom worked 2nd and 3rd shift when I was growing up, so I know how it can be. I'm definitely okay working weekends. My DH has a non-traditional schedule so we are already used to functioning outside of the typical M-F, 9-5 lifestyle.

[heartosunshine]

That is where I'm at right now. I need to balance time and money invested with needing to get on with life. I just don't know at this point what I can be reasonably happy with and don't want to waste time or money as I try to figure it out. 

 

Would you mind sharing what program you are in? 

 

Web Development.

I can't handle bodily fluids, so any type of hands-on healthcare was out. I loathed accounting class in college. I know too many unemployed teachers. I can't be on my feet all day. All these factors came into consideration when I was figuring out what to do.

 

I landed on IT as an option but I really like to be creative. I love the internet (big, puffy heart love; weird, I know). Keep in mind, though, this career is a total shift for me as I used to work in QA at a biotech company. I have a LOT of learning to do and that can be scary. Programming is really challenging for me (I'm a beginner) and every day there's a real risk that I'll smash my computer to bits in frustration. I'll get there eventually, though. :)  Seriously, though, I do like my classes & feel like I'm on the right path for me.

[meena]

Heartosunshine - Thank you! Your experience is inspiring. I'm so afraid of choosing wrong so tend to default to what is easy. I really appreciate you keeping it real and acknowledging challenges while still having a great attitude.  

[HSmomof2]

OK, am I the only one who finds that to be incredibly creepy and controlling?

 

If he was just helping research ideas, then no. Forcing a certain career choice, yes.

[Supertechmom]

How about tutoring? Several online tutoring services as well as the schools . It just depends on the need. I needed a new career so had to do the school route but if I had a degree that was revelant, then I would have worked on making that work somehow. We've used online tutors and have been pleased with the process.

[meena]

How about tutoring? Several online tutoring services as well as the schools . It just depends on the need. I needed a new career so had to do the school route but if I had a degree that was revelant, then I would have worked on making that work somehow. We've used online tutors and have been pleased with the process.

 

In hiring a tutor, would you be scared off by someone who only has 3 years teaching experience that was 12 years ago? I only ask to figure out whether tutoring is something that is feasible for now, or if I really need to have some type of refresher that brings my skills and experience up to date. 

[LucyStoner]

OK, am I the only one who finds that to be incredibly creepy and controlling?

No, no you are not.

[LucyStoner]

A lot of graduate and professional programs are open to people with a prior BA or BS with some additional prereqs taken.

 

I am planning to become a CPA. Before I settled on that as my next career, I considered speech language pathology, going to law school, family law (there's a limited licensure option for this now that doesn't require going to law school), sports trainer, going back to what I did before and honestly, I also looked into some trades like electrician. I also considered social work/domestic violence advocacy but I don't want to have my heart broken for a living and the pay is rather awful.

 

I enjoy accounting and it is closest to my current degree so easy to transition (only need to add few prereqs to my prior degree to satisfy the entrance requirements for a masters in accounting.)

 

I'd start researching what it takes to have jobs you think you might like.

[Ripley]

 

I'm embarrassed to say I don't really know my talents and skills, at least any that translate to anything marketable. I am good at reading, researching, explaining, and listening--basically the same types of skills as every other unemployed Humanities major.  :lol: I'm a decent writer, but I've found that I can't handle the pressure of creating on demand. In previous jobs I've taught Language Arts, managed literacy grants for a library, graded tests online (very repetitive but didn't drive me too crazy), tutored elementary students, worked with a curriculum publisher to align with state standards and write new content to fill gaps, and working in the YMCA child watch area. I'm a hard worker but I'm currently more committed to my family than my job so I don't want to go into a field that expects my life to revolve around it. I also did a lengthy stint in retail while in college.

 

I do like working with people; I'm a helper. But I'm also an introvert so too much people-time can be exhausting. I'm better with one on one or small group situations vs. big groups. Most of the work I've done is with children but I don't think I'm naturally a "kid person". I'm okay with desk or hands-on. I'm also okay with shiftwork and flexibility. My mom worked 2nd and 3rd shift when I was growing up, so I know how it can be. I'm definitely okay working weekends. My DH has a non-traditional schedule so we are already used to functioning outside of the typical M-F, 9-5 lifestyle.

 

 

I think you should consider technical writing. It hits your skills without delving too far into your dislikes (creative content) and can be pretty flexible. I did it for a year when a work injury kept me out of the field. My company let me tele-commute, I only had to come into the office a minimum of one day or 8 hours/week.

 

Court transcriber

 

Paralegal - with your bachelor's, you probably only need a certificate. Not sure about the forecast for this job but it fits your skills! 

 

Grant writing - as a consultant you can build up your career as the need to grows. So many organizations need help with this and are willing to pay. I did it in college. You won't get rich, but in my case it led to other writing/editing opportunities that became my bread and butter.

 

Adjunct teacher at the community college - maybe not super reliable in the long term, but in line with your background while you take more time to figure out what else to do

 

But really - instead of a professional career have you considered a more non-traditional "long term job" - like an airline? Most people think of the front line (flight attendants, gate agents, pilots) but there are a ton of people in the back. They crunch numbers, they write safety manuals, they put out press junkets, they staff the elite lounges, etc. They work in small groups. You could jump ship at any time if you find a field you are more passionate about, while still bringing in some bacon. And flight benefits ;).

 

Or in a completely different direction - financial planning or selling insurance. I have brothers that do both. They work from home and most of our neighbor don't think they have jobs at all because they're always at the gym, the Starbucks, or the sports fields LOL. No degree required, but certification is necessary. That's good, though because you don't have to get super vested (time, money) before you know if it's a good fit for you. You'll need to some selling and meetings, but they're the small groups you prefer.

 

 

 

[meena]

A lot of graduate and professional programs are open to people with a prior BA or BS with some additional prereqs taken.

 

I am planning to become a CPA. Before I settled on that as my next career, I considered speech language pathology, going to law school, family law (there's a limited licensure option for this now that doesn't require going to law school), sports trainer, going back to what I did before and honestly, I also looked into some trades like electrician. I also considered social work/domestic violence advocacy but I don't want to have my heart broken for a living and the pay is rather awful.

 

I enjoy accounting and it is closest to my current degree so easy to transition (only need to add few prereqs to my prior degree to satisfy the entrance requirements for a masters in accounting.)

 

I'd start researching what it takes to have jobs you think you might like.

 

I had SLP high up on my list until I read the current requirements for licensing. Unfortunately, I don't have the time or finances to take 30 post-bacc and then 60+ graduate credits. There is a Bachelor's in Communication Disorders offered at a nearby school, but the program only leaves one qualified to become a SLP assistant which isn't a job typically offered in my state. I've also read that nationwide there are more applicants into SLP programs than there are openings, so it can be very competitive to get accepted. At this point my resume is less than stellar, so I don't see how I'd compete with those fresh out of college.

 

Thank you for the reminder to look into programs that would take into account that I already have a degree.

[displace]

I skimmed some responses. I saw teaching and recs may be necessary, but for all teaching? I'm thinking Kaplan online, Phoenix, other places (not limited to tutoring or primary education).

 

Could you pick up references with just refresher courses from a community college? Or be teacher assistant to get them? Or try to find a position where you could study online free while working (Kaplan)? I hesitate to recommend taking out loans unless it's a short time, public univ/college, with good pay afterwards.

 

Maybe in home daycare? Or take a quiz for a job That is right for you that would suit your skills and personality?

[FaithManor]

How much do you think you need to make per year? It is hard to advise without knowing what salary range you need. Plus, a state would be good because salaries vary so much around the country.

[Storygirl]

What is your public library like? Our library system has a position called "library assistant" where you do the job of the librarian even though you don't have an MLS. A little less pay than a true librarian. This is a large library system, so a smaller independent library may not have something like this. But it can't hurt to check. Our library system also hired subs; I used to piece together a good number of hours by accepting sub jobs at various branches. In the public library, you do have to be available nights and weekends.

[meena]

What is your public library like? Our library system has a position called "library assistant" where you do the job of the librarian even though you don't have an MLS. A little less pay than a true librarian. This is a large library system, so a smaller independent library may not have something like this. But it can't hurt to check. Our library system also hired subs; I used to piece together a good number of hours by accepting sub jobs at various branches. In the public library, you do have to be available nights and weekends.

 

This summer I applied for 3 library assistant positions but no luck. :( I was kind of surprised that I didn't even get called for an interview. With the exception of my long absence from working, I think I have a decent resume. I graduated summa cum laude, have post-bacc. graduate credits, and have both teaching and library experience. The job market is much tougher now than when I graduated from college.

[meena]

How much do you think you need to make per year? It is hard to advise without knowing what salary range you need. Plus, a state would be good because salaries vary so much around the country.

 

I would probably need a starting salary of at least $35-$40K before taxes. I'm in FL (large metro area), but with DH's job we can live in different places. We've talked about moving to NC but are scared of the state income tax.

[cjzimmer1]

In hiring a tutor, would you be scared off by someone who only has 3 years teaching experience that was 12 years ago? I only ask to figure out whether tutoring is something that is feasible for now, or if I really need to have some type of refresher that brings my skills and experience up to date. 

 

Well I think your teaching is way more current than 12 years ago.  Haven't you been homeschooling?  Then you've been teaching all along.  While I realize this doesn't help you get professional references, don't downplay your time at home.  Take those skills you use everyday and highlight those skills.  You can multitask to the extreme (because let's face it you're homeschooling 3 kids of course they are all doing something different at the same time), you can problem solve with the blink of an eye(how do do I keep little johnny out of trouble while helping susie with her math and get supper cooked all in the next 30 minutes because I have to take george somewhere in 1 hour), you excel at mentoring and training (because really isn't that what you are doing with your kids).  See it's all in how you spin it.  You haven't been sitting home stagnating for 12 years you have simply developed a different set of skills and you have to word it so that a potential employee sees how those skills would be relevant to them.  As far as what to do I'm not very good at that department but it just seemed to me you were selling yourself short about your current skills.

[OneStepAtATime]

Look at sites like Wyzant.  There are tutors on there that have teaching experience like yours.  Taught in ps then homeschooled.   There are many parents that need tutors.  In fact, there are homeschoolers who need help in a targeted area, too, not just parents of kids in brick and mortar.  And if you trained in a system like Wilson or Barton or Lindamood Bell or general OG training (the best option) you could also do tutoring for dyslexic students and charge more money than normal tutoring fees. Once you get a reputation you can make good money and have fairly flexible hours.  I see most tutors charging between $30 and $50 an hour.  You won't get rich but it could at least help out.

[Storygirl]

This summer I applied for 3 library assistant positions but no luck. :( I was kind of surprised that I didn't even get called for an interview. With the exception of my long absence from working, I think I have a decent resume. I graduated summa cum laude, have post-bacc. graduate credits, and have both teaching and library experience. The job market is much tougher now than when I graduated from college.

 

Don't give up!  I applied more than three times before I was hired. Our library system has a huge number of applicants, and each hiring manager has something different that they are looking for.  Keep applying for every job opening. Be persistent!

[meena]

Look at sites like Wyzant.  There are tutors on there that have teaching experience like yours.  Taught in ps then homeschooled.   There are many parents that need tutors.  In fact, there are homeschoolers who need help in a targeted area, too, not just parents of kids in brick and mortar.  And if you trained in a system like Wilson or Barton or Lindamood Bell or general OG training (the best option) you could also do tutoring for dyslexic students and charge more money than normal tutoring fees. Once you get a reputation you can make good money and have fairly flexible hours.  I see most tutors charging between $30 and $50 an hour.  You won't get rich but it could at least help out.

 

Do you recommend any certain programs for general OG training? I just did a quick search and found the Institute for Multi-Sensory Education does training around the country. It's not cheap so I'd need to verify that this is a reputable organization in the field.

 

I do know about Barton training as I was looking into the program for my son. Barton certification is expensive since you have to buy and go through Levels 1-3. But that's significantly cheaper than grad school so perhaps I should give that a second look. :) Thank you for the ideas.

[meena]

Don't give up!  I applied more than three times before I was hired. Our library system has a huge number of applicants, and each hiring manager has something different that they are looking for.  Keep applying for every job opening. Be persistent!

 

Thank you for the reassurance! I was feeling pretty discouraged when I got the 'thanks but no thanks' emails without even interviewing. It's good to hear that persistence can pay off.

[OneStepAtATime]

Do you recommend any certain programs for general OG training? I just did a quick search and found the Institute for Multi-Sensory Education does training around the country. It's not cheap so I'd need to verify that this is a reputable organization in the field.

 

I do know about Barton training as I was looking into the program for my son. Barton certification is expensive since you have to buy and go through Levels 1-3. But that's significantly cheaper than grad school so perhaps I should give that a second look. :) Thank you for the ideas.

Well, from my perspective Barton was a bargain since I paid over $800 in tutoring fees in a month for my two kids and it didn't help at all, but Barton was cheaper and was a huge help.  And I can use it to tutor others should I ever decide to go that route.  Or I can sell it for nearly the original price.  But from your perspective, yes, it could be a big initial investment.  Each level is about $250-$300.  

 

I would suggest looking into general OG training, TBH.  If that turns out to be too expensive than training in Barton is probably your next bet for dyslexia tutoring since there are training DVD's and a great TM included as well as tons of free resources on the Barton site and some really good support gaming materials available through Spelling Success for not much cost.  I am attaching a thread regarding OG training that might help.

 

http://forums.welltrainedmind.com/topic/523967-orton-gillingham-training/

[Jenny in Florida]

In hiring a tutor, would you be scared off by someone who only has 3 years teaching experience that was 12 years ago? I only ask to figure out whether tutoring is something that is feasible for now, or if I really need to have some type of refresher that brings my skills and experience up to date. 

 

Edited to Add: Sorry, I just read what salary range you are looking for, and you should probably disregard  my suggestions. Even in combination, these kinds of jobs wouldn't get you close to $30,000 in your first couple of years, if at all.

 

A lot of this depends on what kind of tutoring we're talking about and how much you need to make.

 

I work part-time with Tutor.com. Outside of homeschooling and teaching Sunday school and co-op classes, I had no teaching experience when I started. If you have a bachelor's degree and can pass their exam in a subject (or two or more) in which they currently need people, getting hired is not terribly difficult. The catches are that it's very part-time at first (like five hours a week) and the hourly rate is not enough to live on, even if it were full-time. However, the hours are very flexible, and you work from home. There are opportunities to move up and to train to take on mentoring new hires, which earns more money. It's not a "career" option, though, I don't think.

 

I've also recently started working for a Huntington Learning Center, again part time. They wanted me to have some teaching experience, and I had to provide a couple of references, but the process was neither difficult nor lengthy. The hourly rate is not significantly better than the online tutoring, but I like the training and experience I am getting, and I enjoy working with the students. (It's mostly one-on-one study skills teaching, and I am being trained this week in exam prep, which will also be one on one.)

 

I would think that. with teaching certification and a few years of experience, you would find it relatively easy to get into similar jobs pretty much immediately. While neither would be an actual living, either could provide opportunities for you to start earning some cash right away and to refresh your skills and get something current on your resume. 

 

Just a thought. Feel free to PM if you'd like to chat about either job in more detail.

[Liz CA]

Can you get a master's degree in a subject you are very interested in and then teach at community college level. Would this salary be enough to float your boat?

[Joanne]

Don't rule out teaching. When I became a single mom, I found a job at an alternative school (not the at risk high school kind). We don't have the problems inherent in public school administration and we have a culture and style that is friendly to (many) homeschool worldviews. I don't exactly live in a bastion of progressiveness, either.

[LucyStoner]

Definitely not MLIS if your family can't move wherever you can get a job. None of the librarians I know have had an easy time of it. Most recently my best friend's younger brother landed his first post MLIS library job after applying hundreds of places all over the country. He finally landed a job, but yeah, he moved for it. Not a good second income if your spouse's income is at all place dependent.

 

And library assistant jobs here are part time and usually about $10-12/hr here. Great if you need extra cash and you get hired. Not so much a way to support a family.

[kiwik]

In hiring a tutor, would you be scared off by someone who only has 3 years teaching experience that was 12 years ago? I only ask to figure out whether tutoring is something that is feasible for now, or if I really need to have some type of refresher that brings my skills and experience up to date.

Haven't you been home schooling? Seems like pretty good preparation for tutoring. Maybe you could tutor some friend's kids and they could write references.

[wintermom]

OK, am I the only one who finds that to be incredibly creepy and controlling?

 

Actually, it can be a good piece of information to consider. The age one completes a Masters/PhD and the job prospects afterwards, compared to the worker's age and current position, can really make a difference in deciding whether putting in the big bucks to get the degree is worthwhile. 

 

 

To the OP, if you have a BEd, and possibly other degrees, and related experience, the scope of your career path can be very broad. I'd look at the big picture of all your education and professional background, your interests, your age, and related degrees and certifications, and see what comes out. You are certainly NOT limited to being in a classroom with a B.Ed. It's a great degree to have in combination with other degrees and experience.

 

 

Probably the biggest negatives on your resume is your lack of recent professional experience and education. If you can update one or both of these, you'd look better on paper. Otherwise, knowing someone personally to get yourself in the door will be a great asset.