Psychology degree, ASL interpreter? I'm completely stuck - some advice?

Question

I'm a junior in college and a psychology major. I'm feeling really burned out and disengaged at school and I have no idea if I want to finish my last year in the Fall or wait until I know I'll have more motivation and do better.

I know it would be good to just get it out of the way, but I literally get sick to my stomach when I think about going back to the same thing. If I do go back, I am transferring schools anyway to be closer to home for various reasons.

My alternate plan if I don't go back on track with my psych degree is to start training as a sign language interpreter. I have the chance to do really well in that area and I don't know if I should take a break and give that a try or just go back to school.

Help?

ALSO:

If I was to stick with the psych, I'd probably end up doing something specific like stress workshops, teen help centers, or writing. I wouldn't be a counselor.

And . .my biggest concern is that when I transfer, I'll have at least one extra semester, possibly a whole year, adter my expected grad date. It's sort of overwhelming to think of being in school that much longer when I just want to be doing my own thing, being creative with my career, and making money.

Answer 1

Kind of like you, I was getting burned out on psychology and at the same time fell in love with ASL. I finished out the psych degree and then got my interpreting degree. However, if you are really wanting to get out in the field, go ahead and get the interpreting degree now. Finishing the psych degree at some point in the future may allow you to command higher wages (depending on where you work.) Good luck. ; )

Answer 2

I would say go for the ASL interpreter position. If you are burnt out on psych, that is a good thing as far as I am concerned. Most people who take jobs involving psychology -- counselor or whatever -- end up being dishonest with their clients, manipulating them and screwing them around.

I don't like shrinks. I acknowledge that there are a few good ones, but they would never have any serious doubts about school. They would know what they want to do with the degree, and simply tolerate all the unpleasant aspects of the training so they could go ahead and really be of help to people.

Answer 3

I would definatly go back and get it done and otherwith. You will be so happy and it will really pay off just to be done. You can get out there and start working. But depending on your personality, I would consider switching to the sign language interperter. Being a Psychologist is a very emtionally stressful career. Are you prepared to be taking care of people who may be suicidal and really mentally screwed up all that time. Cause this will be your work everyday. And sure its rewarding when you really help someone out. But the pressure is tremendous. I know someone who is a sign interperter and they love it and find it really rewarding as well. They also make quite a bit of money. You can always do that job freelance or for courts. All of your possibilties are endless. Good luck and hopefully you can decide on what you really want. :-)

Answer 4

In USA, there is a law for funerals provide interpreters because they serve to the public. Last several funerals we had, we called asap to let them know that there will deaf families attending and explain they could do tax exempt. No problem! Before this we had families make plans to pay for an interpreter and some did not think of asking because they were in mourn. The Deaf/Hard of Hearing needs to call funeral themselves or have someone help to make arrangements. Try this, tell them they can get their money back through tax exempt. Some may not be familiar with this -just smile and educate them! However interpreters could help explain what you were trying to say, they are supposed to be familiar with this as well.