I have been working in administration for 13 years and I would really like to retrain in something new, perhaps complimentary therapies or even teaching?
As a single parent would I be taking a risk leaving work to go back to college / university full time ?
2007-05-08 02:00:33 · 13 answers · asked by Anonymous in Education & Reference ➔ Higher Education (University +)
try part time first to c how u go.
2007-05-08 02:05:54 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
If you go to Uni I am pretty sure you would get government funding as you are retraining - I think there may even be a benefit package for people who are retraining. You could get a student loan that you wouldn't have to pay back until you were earning over a certain amount and this would help support you.
If you aren't enjoying what you are doing then I would definitely try and do something new, part time at least. One of my mother's friends (also a single parent) is doing a psychology degree part time, approx. one day a week, has taken out a student loan to cover childcare, transport and course costs. It's made such a difference to the quality of her life so I'd thoroughly reccommend it.
Good luck!
2007-05-08 09:10:46 · answer #2 · answered by Pol 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
13 years in a field is a pretty lengthy time. but if you're not happy with what you're doing, then perhaps it would be for the best that you pursue something else. this would not necessarily mean that you must dive into an entirely new "industry" because doing so often requires a lot of investment altogether.
i suggest you try to scope out the related occupations in the same field or industry you are currently working in before reconsidering trying out something completely different. this is to avoid any unnecessary transfer to something you have to invest so much again in (like time and money, very important for someone like you, a single parent).
driving from assumptions, early graduation, 13 years in the workforce, you are at least 35 years old (?) so definitely, going back to university as a full time student is going to be really tough, especially that you have a responsibility to feed and care for your child(ren). so think about it very well, before you actually leave your job. the way i see it, sometimes, these might just be the sacrifice you have to make to be a good parent...
2007-05-08 09:55:25 · answer #3 · answered by nihonjinpoi 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Go for it!!
If you want to do teaching, there is extra money available when training through the grants structure. More still if it is a shortage subject - maths, science & RE are three that come to mind. They are three year courses where you study for a degree and have teacher training as well.
Your other option is to do a degree in a subject that is taught in school and then do a one year PGCE course. With the PGCE course you do get extra grants as well.
I'm a single parent so get the special grant and parents learning allowance as well as full loan. On top of this, I get child tax credit and help with housing.
So even if you give up work, you should be able to muddle through. It is a fantastic opportunity but if you want to do teaching, don't wait until you are in your 50s to do it - its much harder to get a place on a course.
Get a prospectus from two or three unis that do teacher training and see what takes your fancy.
Good luck
2007-05-09 07:34:34 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Its a painfull move. I did the same thing, left a full time job to go back to college. I dont regret it, but I do have the debt to show for it.
There are student loans and there may be some additional benefits with you having a child. I would look into how much money you would be getting then weigh it up against you outgoings. If you think you can afford to go for it then do so. If not maybe a part time course would better suit you.
Whatever you decide, best of luck
2007-05-08 09:10:00 · answer #5 · answered by Scottish Girl 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
yes. I think it would a good idea. It is a risk, but then isn't anything? It would change your life. :)) Research the job you are thinking of training for. E.g. At the moment (and hopefully this is only temporary) there is a shortage of primary teaching jobs due to probationers filling the posts that come available and staff members holding onto jobs for as long as they can for the same reasons. Teaching is certainly a very rewarding profession, although it is a lot of hard work. Good luck.
2007-05-08 09:11:26 · answer #6 · answered by otis 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There is always a risk, but if you think you can do it go for it. It won't be easy, nothing worthwhile ever is but I promise you this. If you don't , you will look back when it's too late and think if only I had. I am 65 and still working, not because I have to but because I enjoy my job. You are obviously bored in yours. You spend over half your waking life in work, at least do something you like. Good luck whatever you decide
2007-05-08 09:36:11 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
yes you should go for it. i returned to college last year got 3 weeks of my course left to go. i have done an access to higher education diploma which allows me to go to university as i did not have any A levels. i took psychology, life science, health studies, IT and study skills. i have to say it has been really great, i have made loads of new friends my lecturers are great and i would highly recommend it. even though i was not particularly confident before going somehow i plucked up the courage and haven't looked back. got 8 essays and 4 IT assignments to do in the next 3 weeks but hey who's panicking. i think you would be setting a marvellous example to your children. there are all sorts of financial help you can get, so pop along to your local college and ask their advice. good luck with whatever course you choose. xx
2007-05-09 11:39:49 · answer #8 · answered by Dolly 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's not a risk it's a lifestyle choice! Now is your time.
Yes. Do it now. You only have one life. Be all you can be.
You may even meet the man of your dreams at College/Uni
You are entitled to a good and comfortable fulfilling life as much as those who already have it. No need to have a house full of second prizes. Do something do it now!!
2007-05-08 09:13:41 · answer #9 · answered by Jimbobarino 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you are determined and put yourself into the task whole-heartedly, it will be the best move of your life and, in the future, your only question will be why it took you so long to make the move. I left a similar job at the age of 38 to do a degree and never regretted it.
2007-05-08 09:10:47 · answer #10 · answered by Pete H 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Do what im doing, stay in the job youve got for financial reasons and study part time.
2007-05-11 18:20:33 · answer #11 · answered by Tatty Ted 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋