Changing Your Career
Sometimes we leave school with ambition and a dream of what we want to do in life. If the drive is there, a college degree and a job in the right field may follow. But maybe your decision has changed. Half way through your course or once you get a taste in the job, things may go a little sour. It may not be as you expected, or your interests have evolved as your experiences broaden.
Going Up The Right Path
When I was at school I didn’t seem to know what I wanted to do as a career. Back then all I knew were the main types of jobs. I tried work experience in a hair salon, but immediately hated it. It wasn’t my scene. My romantic idea of styling hair in a glamorous environment soon went out of the window when I was making cups of coffee, and sweeping hair for bossy staff.
I remember halfway through my work experience making the decision to do what I loved most. Write. That was my strength and my love, but finding a career in it is rather a challenge.
For me, I actually went in a different direction altogether after college, and worked in the health sector. But after twelve years, I changed my direction and went back to my dream.
How Easy Can I Change Careers?
When I worked in healthcare, in order to get a promotion, I had to promote myself. That meant going on all the courses there were available to me, then going back to college and train up in my own time. I was working full time, was a single parent and I had rent to pay but I managed it. I came out of it with a professional qualification. Another to add to my resume and a chance of moving within my career.
Although it was in the same field, moving away from the area you are in can be possible. At one point in my life as a single parent, I trained up to be a Childminder and I ran my own business from home. I still class it as working in the care sector, but I had to learn a lot of new things.
If you are interested in something else and show knowledge and willing, why not take a look at the options for you?
Distance Learning
This is something which can be done in your own time around your current job. By applying for a course online, through the post or through an open college, you will be sent the details. Information and booklets will be available to you, along with how to complete the course in stages. A tutor or mentor should be able to advise you, either by telephone, face to face or by email.
At the end of your course you will be graded and sent a valid certificate. You can complete courses on different levels, from a foundation or level one, up to diplomas and degrees.
Attending College
Going back to college can seem quite daunting. Especially if it has been quite a while since you last studied. I have gone back to college more than once and have seen the lack of confidence in mature students at the start. It can take a while to get into the swing of things, but with support from your tutor and classmates, you may find you’ll enjoy the experience.
If you have a family to take care of, or a full time job, see if you can attend night classes. Going for one or two evenings a week may be a possibility. Try and make time at weekends or evenings you are at home to study and complete coursework. By keeping on top of things, you are well on your way to your new qualification.
Starting From Scratch
Have you ever thought about starting a new business venture and becoming your own boss? You may be able to do this by attending a few workshop sessions, or even from your own knowledge.
Some businesses can be set up with minimal qualifications. If you know what you are doing and can produce results, you may be as good or better than someone with a masters in the subject.
Learning about SEO, freelance writing or web design doesn’t always require college. Many talented and creative people set up their own websites and develop a career from home successfully. Knowledge and know how will take you a long way in your career, as long as you pursue it.
