Careers for mothers (college dilemma)

[Hunter's Moon]

I posted awhile ago asking what job some of you would have chosen had you known you wanted to homeschool. I'm still struggling with this and would like some more input.

 

I know that I want to be a homeschooling mother when I have children. Whether that means staying at home full-time or working part-time, I don't know and won't know until it happens, but I would like to have a solid career choice.

 

I always figured I'd go to college because I got good grades, no one in my family went and they all told me it would make a better life, etc. I have a B average and got an 1850 on my SATs. Not remarkable, but definitely decent. I don't really want to go to college though. For one, student loans. I don't want loans for years and years if I am not even sure I'll get a job with that degree. I don't have one set interest. If I was interested in one thing, say Physics or Sports Medicine or whatever, I could see going because I know it wouldn't be a wasted degree and I could easily pay my debts.

 

I've considered just attending one of the local CC's and getting an Associate's, or even just becoming certified as a Phlebotomist.

 

My parents are supportive no matter what I choose. My mother would prefer I go to a 4-year college because she thinks it automatically translates to a good-paying job. I know it doesn't though. It seems to me that CC translates to a good-paying job easier than a 4-year degree (unless I had an actual interest in something that offered a 4-year degree).

 

I just want a career that I can do until I get settled down and have children, but that can also help support my family if the need arises.

 

Am I being ridiculous? Should I just suck it up, pick a degree, and go to university? I can't think of a career I want. I know for sure that I want to be a homeschooling mother, though.

 

I don't want to be a nurse or accountant and I'm pretty sure I don't want to be a therapist of any kind (Occupational, Physical, etc.). Those are the jobs most often brought up though when thinking about being a mom in the future.

[DawnM]

If I were you I would talk to a career counselor.

 

You might start with the book Please Understand Me. It has a type of Myers-Briggs test in the book and then goes over what jobs/careers might be best suited for you.

 

I did not plan to be a homeschooling mom, in fact, I never intended to stop working at all. I became a high school teacher and then a high school counselor and worked for 17 years before quitting and staying home.

 

However, my job cannot be done while homeschooling. If I had known I would be a homeschooler and I still wanted to work, I would have gone into something in the medical field so that I could continue working off-hours. It doesn't have to be a nurse, it could be an X-ray tech, physicians' assistant (although that is a very demanding job), or a wide variety of careers.

 

Dawn

 

PS: The other thing to remember is that you don't need to choose before college necessarily. Take the first 2 years of college to see what might interest you.

[cathmom]

LOL I was going to say teacher, since I am a part-time teacher! but that requires college.

[Splash]

If I'd know I was going to homeschool in the future I think I'd have used my elementary education degree, get my masters in special education and then a dyslexia tutors certification. I see such a great need for this in our area. DD has dyslexia and we paid a tutor $70 per week. She was really encouraging me to do this because she can't handle all the kids that come her way. She does it out of her home and sets her own hours.

 

Just a thought

[TXMomof4]

I think it's very wise to choose a career that will be useful at any point rather than getting a degree without any idea of what you want to do with it.

 

My degree is in biology and chemistry. When I started, I planned on going to medical school. Then I got married and decided I would rather not spend that much time and money to be a dr. The plan still is to eventually go into nursing, but how much easier if I had just gotten an RN instead of a BS, then an RN. A biology degree is essentially useless on its own, kwim? Plus, I'm still paying student loans for a degree I've never used.

 

Medical assistant, PA, RN, LVN, x-ray tech, ultrasound tech - any of those things would be tremendously useful and have an immediate income potential.

[Hunter's Moon]

I was considering X-ray Tech or Medical Assistant, as well. Online I see a lot of Medical Assistants have trouble with finding jobs though. I'll look more into X-ray.

[*lifeoftheparty*]

I joined the Army to be a linguist. It worked out REALLY well.

 

They sent me to a top-notch language school. I learned Chinese, met & married my husband, and got to live in Hawaii.

 

I am using my $50,000 in GI bill money for online college. (It pays for college AND our vacations!) As long as I keep my Chinese up, I can go back to linguist work no problem. There is a huge need for Chi-lings, and there will be for the foreseeable future. Plus, now it's easier for me to teach DS Chinese.

 

SO, I didn't plan things with homeschooling in mind. But it turned out to be perfect :)

 

Was the Army hard? Yes, a bit, more physically than anything. All you have to do is run, do push-ups and follow orders, give 100% and you're good to go.

 

BUT, I get preferential hiring, have military training, no student loans, got to use a VA home loan, use a VA clinic when we didn't have health insurance, get to use USAA for a bank, made life-long friends, etc. and I know what I'm capable of. I'm immensely proud of the things I have accomplished, so I feel more fulfilled as a SAHM.

 

Just a thought :)

[Whereneverever]

Personally, I'd do Phlebotomist or CNA.

[regentrude]

I never intended to be a homeschooling mom, but it happened, and I work part time as a college instructor while homeschooling my two children. I have a doctorate in physics and worked several years before I even had children.

I find it important for a woman to have a career plan so that she can support herself without a spouse (first, not everybody gets married, second, unfortunately some women get widowed or divorced). So even with the desire to be a homeschooling mother, you need to have a plan in place that would make it possible for you to earn a living. Also, not every couple can have children.

I would encourage you to talk to a career counselor to find out what would be a good fit for you - then follow your interests. There are too many factors going into choosing a career - letting it be dictated by what today sounds feasible for a homeschooling mom is not the best idea. (One should not even choose a major based on the job market, because these things change - if xyz is in demand now, it does not guarantee it will be five years hence.)

So, once you have chosen a career and gotten your education and have children, THEN it is time to search for opportunities to make homeschooling work. A lot will depend on where you live (which may have to depend on your husband's job), what profession and income your husband has, whether your children have special needs, what jobs are locally available... I do not think you can optimize everything now by choosing the optimum career.

[Chris in VA]

I think college is more than just career preparation. It allows you a time to expand your mind and your perspectives, among other things. Surely there are other ways to do that, but I feel college can be an invaluable tool that way. Once working at a career starts, or children "happen," many folks don't take the time to read the Great Books, or listen to lectures on philosophy or astronomy, or do lab work--unless it's their job.

 

Just an observation based on limited experience: It seems to me that some families where college is not the norm tend to be extremely practical wrt the college experience, and do not place a high value on the kind of knowledge that may enrich one's life but not necessarily one's pocketbook. I see this in my husband's family. It's kinda funny--he has three sisters and a brother who did not go to college, and a brother and a sister with their Ph.D's (he has his, too). I will say they are all interesting people, all successful (the non-college folks are doing well for themselves). There is something about the ones who have more education, tho--I don't mean to stereotype, I really, really don't--but they have something the others don't. Now, you can get this "extra something" without college--but it's not as easy. (OTOH, you can waste the college experience and not get the expanded perspective or whatever-I-can't-seem-to name--and many who go to college just don't take advantage of the opportunity.)

 

So, I'd encourage you to get the 4 year degree--because you will gain far more than career prep.

 

And, this is GREAT if you are going to be homeschooling, because you will be able to draw upon a bigger body of knowledge than you will have if you just take the courses that lead to a job.

 

Does that make sense? I hope I didn't offend--it's just what I see. (And I have seen great wisdom and depth in people who haven't even graduated high school, much less gone to college--that's not what I'm saying.)

[FO4UR]

I'm a HSing mom with a bach degree that sits there...with the student loans to prove it.

 

My advice would be to either get a job, or get certified to work at something that will pay your way through a 4 year school. You may not want to be a phlebotomist your entire life, but it's a quick certification and would pay better than McD's while either going through a 4yr degree or settling down with a family. Choosing to postpone a 4yr degree in order to do it smartly, is not saying never. And, you are right....a 4yr degree does NOT = good job, especially not in this economy. Start working and saving now. When you KNOW what you want to do, you'll be in a better position to make it happen.

 

If I could go back and tell my younger self advice, it would be similar to this. (Only I wouldn't do phlebotomy...something less medical for my squeamish self LOL.)

[Mama Geek]

A couple of suggestions that wouldn't require college.

 

I have known women to have successful house cleaning businesses

I have also known women who get good at upholstery and or sewing and make good money doing that. Neither of those jobs are real easy, but you can do them and homeschool without going to college.

[jamajo]

Who starts out of high school thinking they are going to homeschool? I didn't even know what that was until my mid 20s.

 

I went to college as an Accounting major (as my dad said the job outlook was good for Accountants) but couldn't hack the higher level accounting classes so I switched to Business Mgt.

 

As a homeschooling mom I wish I had a skill that I could earn money at while homeschooling. Someone suggested I could tutor but I'm not confident in my ability to charge a parent $$ unless I could guarantee results. I look at HSMs who teach Music and Art and wish I could do that to add to my family's income.

 

If I could do it again (which was your original question), I would have majored in Elem Ed because what I realize now that I didn't know back then is how much I love children and how much I love teaching them. Then I would be confident (because of credentials) in pitching myself to others so that I can earn $$ helping their kid learn math and or to read.

 

I also tend to think more Entrepreneurial (sp?). If I was single and/or had a primary bread winner I would try my hand at jobs that allow me to work for myself. I was a successful real estate agent for 10 years before homeschooling. No formal education needed for that - just good people skills, sales skills, and the ability to budget $$ well. Real Estate is the only profession I know where the cost to get in is so low but the payoff is so high! You have to be a hustler (slang for go getter) though. :tongue_smilie:

 

There are so many options for you. I do agree with Chris in VA, my college experience was so much more than preparing for a career. It opens your mind to the world but you do have to consider the debt. I graduated in 1994 and just paid off the debt last year (thanks to the commission check on purchasing my house:lol::lol:). However, this was after deferring the loan twice for unemployment. But I grew up in a single parent household where college was the rule not the exception and my mindset was get a degree by any means necessary. By contrast, my DH never finished but is in a highly specialized field where certifications and experience goes a long way. He makes 4X what I could make with my degree. So go figure? There are no simple answers. Just go for something you will always come out on top b/c there are options, do overs, and circumstances you just can't predict.

Edited August 12, 2011 by jamajo

[Hunter's Moon]

Thank you, everyone!

 

Not getting a 4-yr college degree now doesn't mean I won't ever get one. But, how can I choose a career path I want for life when I'm 17/18? I know people say you don't have to choose the career you want for life when choosing a degree, but I don't have that luxury. Yes, I consider that a luxury. I know I would need to take out loans to go through college. I've looked at it every which way. Leaving college with a 4-yr degree that I don't intend to use all my life with debt is not something I want.

 

I'm just trying to explore all options while stilling knowing what I want in life. I want children. Whether I can have them biologically or have to adopt, so be it. I just know I want that in life. I don't have any specific career in mind because no one specific thing interests me.

 

I'd rather realize 10 years down the road that I'd prefer not to be a Phlebotomist or X-ray Tech than decide my 4-yr degree with tons of debt wasn't right for me.

 

I don't know. I'm just really stressed and confused and wish I had a crystal ball :lol:

 

ETA: I've also been working on my knitting skills and have sold a few items locally (baby booties, scarves, etc.) so I know there are always things I can do on the side of a job to help add to the cash flow.

Edited August 12, 2011 by BeatleMania

[gingersmom]

A couple of suggestions that woul

dn't require college.

 

I have known women to have successful house cleaning businesses

I have also known women who get good at upholstery and or sewing and make good money doing that. Neither of those jobs are real easy, but you can do them and homeschool without going to college.

 

But there are no health benefits, vacation/sick days, pay raises, etc. If you become disabled then what?

 

I am not a fan of my kids going to school to get a useless degree ( like their mother) I think you are wise to plan ahead.

[Shellydon]

Speech-Language Pathologist! Endless career opportunities!

[Supertechmom]

Being one of those moms forced by the economy to get a job now, I just had to go through this whole career choice. First, having at least an associates is FAR FAR better than nothing. I did get one in my first go around as I couldn't decide on that 4 year degree. now I am knee deep in kids and have to get one that works around their schedule. I applied to nursing and the associates gave me a leg up on the admission process as well as fulfilled a lot of basics.

 

If I could go back in time, I would have chosen either cosmetology( several of my hubby's clients are making above 50,ooo with the ones our age with many years making 75,00-100,000) or a medical position - there are tons out there. I would have gone the cc route and did the associate degree. then I would use my job to help pay for the remaining years to get my BSn as that opens even more doors for you. May not change the pay but it does put you in different hiring scale.

 

Possible jobs are emt, any ultrasound job, nuclear medicine tech, xray tech, lab tech. I would not do CNA beyond a help get me through school as that is the lowest paying job around here.

 

My boys are looking at becoming welders and electricians and plumbing to get them through college. Welding is like a 16 week program (we're nonunion state) and the income is high.

 

 

Look in your local paper and see what jobs are being advertised. It would help to give you an idea what is out there and might spark an interest in something for you.

 

But I do encourage you to at least get the associates from the cc.

[Stratford]

I never planned to homeschool, but I did plan to have kids and I knew that I wanted a job that would allow me some flexibility to stay home at least some of the time. Hence, I went to nursing school. (Nursing did make my short-list of career choices, schedule wasn't the sole reason I chose it.)

 

I have worked part-time since my first kiddo was born. I enjoy my career and having that job security is very nice. I don't enjoy working every weekend (my choice of schedule so that I can be home with the kids during the week) and I do not like working holidays. Given the opportunity to go back and choose again, I probably would either stick with nursing or possibly do radiology (xray or ct tech.)

 

I applaud you for thinking so seriously and practically about your future. Something to consider is that many companies will pay for additional schooling once you are employed. For example, most of the CNAs that I work with are in nursing school courtesy of our hospital system. (I did something similar while in nursing school, didn't have to pay tuition, had to work for the hospital system for 2 years to "pay back" my "loan.") My husband (he's in finance) can go back to school for an MBA paid for by his company. That can sometimes be an option for furthering your education without taking on any debt.

[regentrude]

Not getting a 4-yr college degree now doesn't mean I won't ever get one.

 

True. I see, however, how hard it is for older students to go back to school while raising a family - going to college before having a family is infinitely easier.

 

I know people say you don't have to choose the career you want for life when choosing a degree, but I don't have that luxury. Yes, I consider that a luxury. I know I would need to take out loans to go through college. I've looked at it every which way. Leaving college with a 4-yr degree that I don't intend to use all my life with debt is not something I want.

 

A university degree in a certain field does NOT equal a certain career path. With one degree, there are usually many options for different careers, emphasizing different skills you acquired in your education.

The reality is that pretty much nobody will remain with exactly the same kind of job throughout life. Most people WILL go through career changes - often utilizing the same degree, but changing specialties etc.

I have worked as a research scientist for several years, and am now a college instructor - my daily work situation is entirely changed, yet both require and use my degree. (Other people with the same degree work in research and development for large companies, work for financial consulting firms, founded their own business, design science museums, work with radiologists in hospitals...)

This kind of flexibility, I think, is more likely to come with a broader four year degree than with a narrower focused specific job training. For example, I do not know what you can to with a phlebotomist training other than being a phlebotomist - but I know that a biology degree can lead to a wide variety of different jobs. Just something to consider - especially if you can not narrow it down.

Edited August 12, 2011 by regentrude

[Mama Geek]

But there are no health benefits, vacation/sick days, pay raises, etc. If you become disabled then what?

 

I am not a fan of my kids going to school to get a useless degree ( like their mother) I think you are wise to plan ahead.

 

Not to turn this into a healthcare debate but the way we are heading the government will provide healthcare.

 

Vacation/sick days would be covered by actually saving money for a rainy day. You will get pay raises as you get better at the job and your skills become more in demand. If most people had the attitude you do about "blue collar" work there would be a whole lot fewer small businesses.

 

By the way dh is a contract engineer, there are no health benefits, or vacation/sick days. If he takes time off it is without pay. If we go to the doctor we pay cash. If he becomes disabled I will probably go back to work as a contract engineer.

[Hunter's Moon]

If I'd know I was going to homeschool in the future I think I'd have used my elementary education degree, get my masters in special education and then a dyslexia tutors certification. I see such a great need for this in our area. DD has dyslexia and we paid a tutor $70 per week. She was really encouraging me to do this because she can't handle all the kids that come her way. She does it out of her home and sets her own hours.

 

Just a thought

 

This is a good idea also, except I'd prefer to work with the younger crowd (PreK-2nd). There probably would't be many kids with learning disabilities in this age group though since they can take so long to diagnose. I would love to be Montessori certified if I went this route. We have two large Montessori schools in the area.

[Mrs_JWM]

I would consider starting your associate degree now. You could take all the classes you need to fulfill your senior-year requirements while getting a headstart on college. You could also just take one or two classes at a time, do them online through one of your state schools or community colleges. You'll need general education classes regardless of the degree you start working towards, so why not start now?

[gingersmom]

Not to turn this into a healthcare debate but the way we are heading the government will provide healthcare.

 

Vacation/sick days would be covered by actually saving money for a rainy day. You will get pay raises as you get better at the job and your skills become more in demand. If most people had the attitude you do about "blue collar" work there would be a whole lot fewer small businesses.

 

By the way dh is a contract engineer, there are no health benefits, or vacation/sick days. If he takes time off it is without pay. If we go to the doctor we pay cash. If he becomes disabled I will probably go back to work as a contract engineer.

 

I don't consider a house cleaner or someone who sews at home "blue collar" work. I think of it as something that someone does at night/weekends to supplement their income.

 

I had surgery for $100,000. It would be really hard to pay cash for that. Even putting money away for a rainy day.

[Hunter's Moon]

I would consider starting your associate degree now. You could take all the classes you need to fulfill your senior-year requirements while getting a headstart on college. You could also just take one or two classes at a time, do them online through one of your state schools or community colleges. You'll need general education classes regardless of the degree you start working towards, so why not start now?

 

Seniors are only allowed to take 1 class/semester free at CC. I can barely afford the books so I'll be counting on financial aid and scholarships when I go after I graduate.

[Mama Geek]

I don't consider a house cleaner or someone who sews at home "blue collar" work. I think of it as something that someone does at night/weekends to supplement their income.

 

I had surgery for $100,000. It would be really hard to pay cash for that. Even putting money away for a rainy day.

 

If you have a business where people work for or with you it isn't just a night or weekend job. I think either of these would allow the freedoms necessary to homeschool and would bring in a decent income. Have you ever tried to get cushions for a boat or an RV made or have you ever looked at getting a sofa refinished. It isn't cheap.

 

Once again, I think the way this country is going the government (we the taxpayers) will pay for healthcare.

[Mama Geek]

There are ways to make a living without a college degree. It isn't an easy road but it is doable. You can find something that you are interested in and work with someone to learn the job.

[Caterpiller]

Im 25 and have been asking myself these questions lately as well. lol

 

I think I have decided on being a lactation consultant. As a lactation consultant I feel like I would really be helping people connect with their babies, and encouraging post partum health, and be helping to give babies a healthier future.

 

I should also be able to find a job working part time or full time. That is importaint to me. :)

 

Edit to add: There are a couple different paths to becoming a lactation consultant. There is unpaid on the job training and a college path.

Edited August 12, 2011 by Caterpiller

[Carrie12345]

Everybody's experience is unique.

 

For me... I didn't know I'd be sah/homeschooling. I just happened to never get through a full year of college. This makes me feel rather anxious, especially considering my kids' 12+year age span. By the time I reach the point where I'm able to focus on school, I will be 40-ish. And that's *okay*, but I sure would love to be able to transfer some basic English and Humanities credits to kick things off!

 

(Obviously, transfer issues will vary by schools. A while back, my mother was able to transfer about 30 credits after nearly 3 decades, so that was nice!)

[Matryoshka]

Speech-Language Pathologist! Endless career opportunities!

 

Does this require college? Or just a certification of some kind?

[Shellydon]

Does this require college? Or just a certification of some kind?

 

 

It requires both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree, but is a wonderful field. The pay is great too. I regular turn down jobs of $50-$55 an hour.

 

The field has a very wide variety of ages and disorders, allowing someone to specialize.

 

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs), commonly referred to as speech therapists, provide evaluation and remediation services for the following disorders or delays: articulation (pronunciation of words), fluency (stuttering), voice, receptive language (comprehension), expressive language, pragmatic language (social skills), oral motor skills and swallowing.

 

SLPs can be found working in a variety of settings including: public and private schools, hospitals, private practice, colleges and universities, rehabilitation centers, group homes, skilled nursing facilities, in-home visits, state and local health departments, state and federal government agencies, and corporate environments. SLPs have a general knowledge of all areas of speech-language pathology; however, most therapists tend to specialize in specific disorders or populations that they serve most frequently. For example, an SLP working in an elementary school would most likely specialize in articulation, language, fluency, voice and pragmatic skills related to the needs of elementary school students. Whereas an SLP working in an acute care hospital setting would likely specialize in oral motor, swallowing, speech, language and voice disorders related to the needs of hospital patients who have acquired neurogenic disorders.

 

Speech-Language Pathology is an extremely broad field which enables therapists to find their niche and specialize in an area they feel passionately about. The wide range of settings in which SLPs may work provides the opportunity for varied work experiences over the course of their career.

[Hunter's Moon]

It requires both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree, but is a wonderful field. The pay is great too. I regular turn down jobs of $50-$55 an hour.

 

The field has a very wide variety of ages and disorders, allowing someone to specialize.

 

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs), commonly referred to as speech therapists, provide evaluation and remediation services for the following disorders or delays: articulation (pronunciation of words), fluency (stuttering), voice, receptive language (comprehension), expressive language, pragmatic language (social skills), oral motor skills and swallowing.

 

SLPs can be found working in a variety of settings including: public and private schools, hospitals, private practice, colleges and universities, rehabilitation centers, group homes, skilled nursing facilities, in-home visits, state and local health departments, state and federal government agencies, and corporate environments. SLPs have a general knowledge of all areas of speech-language pathology; however, most therapists tend to specialize in specific disorders or populations that they serve most frequently. For example, an SLP working in an elementary school would most likely specialize in articulation, language, fluency, voice and pragmatic skills related to the needs of elementary school students. Whereas an SLP working in an acute care hospital setting would likely specialize in oral motor, swallowing, speech, language and voice disorders related to the needs of hospital patients who have acquired neurogenic disorders.

 

Speech-Language Pathology is an extremely broad field which enables therapists to find their niche and specialize in an area they feel passionately about. The wide range of settings in which SLPs may work provides the opportunity for varied work experiences over the course of their career.

 

I'd been looking into Occupational Therapy for awhile but I think I'm pretty sure that I've decided I just wouldn't be comfortable doing any therapy services (Occupational, Physical, Speech, etc.). I'm just not really the type of person you would expect for the job. Every personality test I take and every career test says Accounting, Business, Science, etc. would be right for me but I've looked into all of them and don't find them interesting enough. I would end up hating my job.

 

I'm just struggling with personality issues and trying to figure out where I'll fit in and we're I'll be comfortable. I would love to have the personality to be an RN, OT, PT, ST, etc. but I just don't have that personality. I know there are all kinds of personalities within those careers, but I feel I wouldn't be comfortable.

[EJCMom]

I'm in court reporting school right now. It is a very in-demand field with several applications -- you don't just have to work in court. Depending on what type of reporting you go into, the schedule can be very flexible. I will probably start out doing freelance deposition work, and I hope to someday move into live television broadcast captioning because that is something I can actually do from home. Court reporting also pays very well because there is a shortage of court reporters.

[Sevilla]

You might find this book helpful: http://www.amazon.com/Do-What-You-Are-Personality/dp/B003P2VDJW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1313186558&sr=8-1

 

I do believe in doing at least an Associates Degree as the practice of learning in college is important IMO.

[Brigitte]

I joined the Navy Reserve out of high school and got a modified GI Bill that I used to pay for school. I still had to work part-time, but I had no debt. I was a French linguist and should have pursued a degree in French in order to teach afterward. However, I got a degree in economics and had to get a master's in accounting in order to get a decent paying job.

 

Other path I would purse instead of what I did is a medical field of some sort. I am squeamish, so x-ray tech, ultrasound tech, etc. would be more up my alley.

[*lifeoftheparty*]

I joined the Navy Reserve out of high school and got a modified GI Bill that I used to pay for school. I still had to work part-time, but I had no debt. I was a French linguist and should have pursued a degree in French in order to teach afterward. However, I got a degree in economics and had to get a master's in accounting in order to get a decent paying job.

 

Other path I would purse instead of what I did is a medical field of some sort. I am squeamish, so x-ray tech, ultrasound tech, etc. would be more up my alley.

 

:iagree:

 

I tell everyone; if you can, join the service! It was the BEST decision I have ever made. Made some of the best friends, had the BEST experiences and felt (and looked!) the BEST I have ever felt in my whole life :)

[Hunter's Moon]

You might find this book helpful: http://www.amazon.com/Do-What-You-Are-Personality/dp/B003P2VDJW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1313186558&sr=8-1

 

I do believe in doing at least an Associates Degree as the practice of learning in college is important IMO.

 

Thank you for the book recommendation, picking it up today at the library!

 

There's this one Associate's degree that interests me the most: Clinical Laboratory Science. Lab Tech's are in high demand and they get decent pay. Also, there is room to move up to Technologist by going to school (and some companies will help pay for tuition) and finishing a Bachelor's. My problem is, they only accept about 15 students every Fall. If I'm not accepted, I don't know how I would afford to attend the Community College because they only offer Financial Aid to anyone accepted and enrolled in a degree or certificate program. I am not sure if I'd still be able to take out loans (small amount).

 

Now, if I just went to the college I wanted to and majored in Biology or Biotechnology, then after I graduate I'd have to take a Lab Science program for a year before I could get a job. It would cost me more money for the Bachelor's and take more time (5 years vs. 2 years). Even if I went on to get my Bachelor's after working for awhile, I'd only need to take 2 years to get my Bachelor's because I'd already be a lab scientist so 5 years vs. 4 years).

 

In this situation, it makes more sense to me to get the Associate's and then work for awhile. I'm sure I'd be sad sometimes about missing out on the "college experience", but I sure as heck wouldn't miss the debt.

[Splash]

Friends of ours have their kids take CNA program and get jobs that will pay for their future education. Kids earn enough that they don't end up with lots of debt when they finish school. One works in a hospital, another in a nursing home, and the third does something else but i can't remember.

[NoPlaceLikeHome]

I was considering X-ray Tech or Medical Assistant, as well. Online I see a lot of Medical Assistants have trouble with finding jobs though. I'll look more into X-ray.

 

I would try to get career counseling that is not associated with a school since some schools will try to steer you into subject areas that have dismal job prospects. I would not consider medical assistant at all since the job prospects are bad last time I heard. Also, be careful which medical field you are considering since some of them have a glut of people all looking for a job. Also, you want to make certain that you are suited for a particular field and that you are familiar with what the job entails. If you are considering nursing and money is an issue, then I would consider a 2 year associate degree to be an RN which would give you more options than an LPN degree. Even better would be an RN to nurse practitioner degree. I have a BS in Nursing which is better than an associate in that it gives you more options but not if paying for college is an issue. CNA is a good certificate to have to help pay your way through college but the work is back breaking.

 

I would honestly look at all possible careers even non-medical and even careers that would be hard to do while homeschooling. I say this because it could be decades before you get married and have kids. I was 39 when I married and had worked for over 20 years as a RN before having ds;) I don't recommend waiting that long but there is value in having a career. For me, it took me that long to meet mister right:) Another reason to have a career is that unfortunately many marriages end in divorce so it is good to have a skill:(

[Cinder]

What about pharmacist or tech? I knew a woman who was a pharmacist and kept up her skills by working one or two weekends per month. This schedule allowed her to be essentially a SAHM and homeschool her kids.

[AngieW in Texas]

Don't assume that you'll necessarily have a ton of debt if you go to 4-year college. As a 1st to go to college, there are more scholarship options for you.

 

I know you're limited in how far away you can go from home. I would make sure to at least apply to the local colleges so you can see what they will offer you. I expected my oldest to get a scholarship, but I didn't expect the level of scholarship that she got. All she has to pay for is housing and she got a stipend to cover 1/3 of that. Well, she also has to pay for books and those won't be cheap (I'd estimate $800-1000/year for that).

 

There is a lot of demand for dyslexia tutors for the K-2nd crowd among hsers and among psers also. While schools generally won't do anything until 2nd grade or later, parents often know that something is going on. If you're willing to go up to 3rd graders, you would definitely have plenty of business.

 

I've also seen several tutors post about doing reading clinics for 4-5yo to teach them to read before they would start K at the ps. Families that already have a dyslexic child are generally willing to spring for things like this to head off problems before they can start.

 

I don't know if my youngest is going to go to a 4-year school (she's only 13yo, but I just don't see the desire to do it in her). If she chooses not to go, then I will insist that she choose something at the cc to get a certification/degree in so she has something beyond high school to show to employers.

[lmrich]

I would spend time researching grants, loans, scholarships etc..

I worked throughout college and had a loan. One of the ways to pay back my loan was to work in a Title One school. I worked there five years and had all of my $20,000 covered. AND I loved working there.

 

I think you will be surprised that if you are willing to work hard/differently that there are lot of opportunities for you.

 

I would strongly suggest looking into the military/National Guard... I had several friends who served one weekend a month and then a week every summer to pay off their debts. They loved the experience and made wonderful friends and contacts.

 

If you are able to have a life plan (I know God has plans for you) but don't start a family until you have paid for your school debts. You and future dh will need to budget but it is possible for you to stay home with future babies. I worked as nanny, babysitter, tutor, and did other odd jobs to supplement dh's income so I could stay home. I teach several classes at an art center and earn enough money to pay for all the kids' extra classes and a few nice other things as well.

 

If you are serious about homeschooling in the future you should at least take some education classes.

[Hunter's Moon]

Thanks, everyone!

 

I guess I'll wait for the financial aid letters to come back before making my decisions.

 

If I did choose Lab Science, I don't know if it would make more sense to become a technician or technologist. To become a technician, I do the 2 yr program at CC, take the national exam, and then work. To become a technologist, I do a 4 yr bachelor's and then a 1 yr lab science program and take the national exam (all more than 45 minutes away).

 

I don't want to supervise people and I just want to be able to leave my work at work, so technician sounds more like what I want. But, technicians make about $17/hour while technologists make about $23/hour.

 

I'd leave CC with less loan debt (which may seem like an investment to some, but debt is debt). I'd miss the "college experience" but if it won't lead to the job I want then it'd be pointless to go just to get that experience.

 

I'll have to wait to see the financial aid letters, first.

[katilac]

I just don't have that personality. I know there are all kinds of personalities within those careers, but I feel I wouldn't be comfortable.

 

That's easy enough to find out: offer some volunteer help to a teacher :D

 

In this situation, it makes more sense to me to get the Associate's and then work for awhile. I'm sure I'd be sad sometimes about missing out on the "college experience", but I sure as heck wouldn't miss the debt.

 

That may well be true, but as my old boss used to say, "don't tell yourself no." In other words, don't ASSUME that the only way you can get through college is with a truckload of debt. Have you applied? Researched possible off-the-beaten-path scholarships? Gone through the financial aid process? If your family is having a hard time financially, that may be bad news overall, but possibly very good news as far as financial aid goes. You won't know until you ask!

[Hunter's Moon]

That may well be true, but as my old boss used to say, "don't tell yourself no." In other words, don't ASSUME that the only way you can get through college is with a truckload of debt. Have you applied? Researched possible off-the-beaten-path scholarships? Gone through the financial aid process? If your family is having a hard time financially, that may be bad news overall, but possibly very good news as far as financial aid goes. You won't know until you ask!

 

And I get this, that is why I'm waiting until I get the financial aid letters to make the decisions, but I would still like to make plans for the different paths.

[Matryoshka]

How about dental hygenist? I know the one in our dentists' office works part-time. Seems like a fairly low-stress but decently paying job?

 

Electrologist?

[ccm]

How about dental hygenist? I know the one in our dentists' office works part-time. Seems like a fairly low-stress but decently paying job?

 

I have been a dental hygienist for 35 years. When I retired 2 years ago, I was making $40/hr. It is a great profession for the right person. I enjoyed it tremendously. :D

[Hunter's Moon]

How about dental hygenist? I know the one in our dentists' office works part-time. Seems like a fairly low-stress but decently paying job?

 

Electrologist?

 

I was looking into this too.

 

I like looking at all my options :001_smile:

[Alice]

I haven't read all the responses so I don't know if someone else said this or not. But one thing that struck me in your post is that although you want to be a homeschooling mom now, it's hard to know what the future contains. I have friends who fully expected to be married with kids and never got married. I have other friends who tried to have kids but weren't able. I think women should plan for a future where they are able to take care of themselves just from a practical standpoint. Ideally, what provides for you financially is also something you have a passion for and are interested in.

 

I also strongly agree with Chris in VA that college is about more than just finding a skill you can do. It's a time to learn things you will never again have the time to learn. It's a time to experience things you will never again have the time to experience. There is something to be said for learning just for the sake of learning.

[LuvingLife]

I was considering X-ray Tech or Medical Assistant, as well. Online I see a lot of Medical Assistants have trouble with finding jobs though. I'll look more into X-ray.

 

I think X-ray Tech is a good idea, I liked this job for awhile, but I am not sure of safety issues and everything. Maybe I should look into this more.:glare:

[JenC3]

Okay here are some thoughts, mostly things I want/wanted to do. I have an English degrees and the loans as well.

I did however work in sales and the non-profit sector before kids.

 

Nursery work/ organic farming:

You can do internships all over the country, take master gardening classes at your county extension office. This will also benefit your future family as you will know how to grow your own food.

 

Midwifery:

Lay midwifery takes about 3 yrs and you can pay as you go.

 

Preschool teacher

This can be had with an associates certificate in early ed. I want to have a waldorf preschool in my 50's.:)

 

Nanny

Training program and you could save a ton of money and maybe travel some.

 

Household assistant

This is an enterprenurial gig. Market yourself to busy working moms as a shopper/childcare/evening meal prep/tutor