Finished at 33, doing a PhD and an MBA simultaneously (and working a part time job).
It's not too late for OP, IF they're willing to work hard / put in the hours.
I got a PhD, an MBA, and my pilot’s license as a single father of eight kids when I had stage 12 cancer while working doubles as a crab fisherman and unicycling a tight rope across the Grand Canyon on my PTO. You can do it man.
I finished my Bachelors at 41 and my masters at 51. Still thinking of learning more. Never too old, just be careful of how you do it. I'm still paying off my bachelors degree... But I work for the university where I obtained my masters and paid that as I wbut they paid for ninety percent of it. That's a way to get an education. Work for a university.
I started a law degree at 30. Worked as a lawyer for 15 years but ultimately, went back to the area of my initial degree, science. I don't regret doing the second degree or the decade and a half in law. Mostly it was interesting and rewarding.
Not a scam if you do everything right. 200k forgiven. The key was actually following instructions, which so many people had a hard time with. I treated my path to forgiveness as a journey that I was solely responsible for navigating, basically as an extra job to make sure I had my employment certified each year, initially made sure that the loans I had qualified (one thing a lot of people didn't bother with that bit them in the ass), and checking that my payments were being counted correctly. The people I know that took responsibility for navigating the process have been forgiven or are on track to be forgiven.
Ah, ok. Seems a little too risky for my liking. The chances of me screwing up and getting screwed on a technically is probably sky high. I always find the word choice "forgiveness" interesting as well. As if these people are acknowledging that they did something wrong.
The public service loan forgiveness is actually written into the promissory note as a method of repayment. Your perception of it is your problem. I never would otherwise worked in government, certainly wouldn't have spent eleven years of my life doing so if it wasn't the most reasonably way to repay my loans. I filled a hard to fill position for ten of indentured servitude. If I left at nine years and ten months, I got nothing forgiven.
The only thing wrong is that the institutions figured out that they could just keep raising tuition costs because federal loans would just keep flowing to meet the tuition demand. And that is why we have a severe shortage of veterinarians (and other professionals with a high cost of education) in our country.
My mom got her master's at 60.
Might it be a bit more challenging the older you are? Sure, As things do. Life has more of an impact. But it's 100% possible. I'm 30 and have been thinking about going back for Electrical Engineering.
I’m 45, in school with people who range from 20s to 60s. It’s never too late. Many of my classmates are in their 30s— that seems to be a time when a lot of people take different paths and when family roles change. You have 40 or so years left to work. 26 is young.
I agree with this as I'm a 1L (law school) at 49.
The thing is, he's telling us that he's too old as a crutch for the double whammy of not being motivated and not having financial support. Those are the actual problems.
My advice to him or her is to stay in the field they are in and seek professional help for depression. Once he or she is financially secure; then retrain into something they know they like once they get past their 20's and actually know what they want.
Exactly, I'm 32, pregnant and trying to finish my degree.. you are at the beginning of your life. There is a lot of time left, when you finish a 4 year degree you'll be 30. So be 30 with a degree and hopefully a nice job, or without a degree and still be miserable.
I’m in my 40s… earned a BS in environmental science last year and now I’m more than halfway through an MBA. I’ve got kids in elementary school and work full time. It’s never too late if someone wants to work for it!
My mom went back for bachelor’s in education (after a BS, MBA, and JD) when she was in her 40s, and later went for a master’s too.
Definitely not too old.
I finished my BS at 39, still considering a Masters at 46.
Edit: Never felt old until my US history prof singled me out and said,”We are starting to get into things that you probably remember.”
For me, it makes more sense studying something when you’re more mature. In my case (23M) I still have no clue what I want to do and I certainly didn’t when I was 18 and chose my degree.
Obviously in todays society you need a degree to do anything these days so one has to pretend they have it all figured out at 18 and know their passions and join the right clubs so as to be connected to the right people. Some do have it figured out but surely they are the minority.
From my experience, the people who seemed the most excited and genuinely interested about their studies have been mature students.
Yeah, there a famous comic who talks about a failing relationship. When we were dating I thought I couldn’t leave, then we got married and I thought I couldn’t leave, then we had a kid and I thought holy shit I could’ve left that whole time!
Same here. After working for ten years and gaining a chartership in my field (banking), decided to change career completely at 30 and went back to uni and got a Comp Sci degree. 26 is soooo young, anything’s still possible.
Ooof but aging is no joke, I can’t do what I could do 15 years ago. But I’m still chugging along.
Still died a little on the inside when someone in my class said they were born in 2001. My brain was not processing!
Mind speaking more on your experience? I’m about to graduate next Saturday at the age of 29, high marks but it’s in psychology… at least I’ll leave with no debt but I am thinking of pursuing my mba since my minor was in business, how do you think I should go about it? Go and apply and start my masters, look for jobs first and see if they’ll pay for it? Which industries you think I should be looking at? Any help would be great!
I was working on my master while working full time. It’s up to you, not sure about Psychology jobs though.
My bachelors is in IT so I do 3/4 IT and the rest is business related. There are jobs that require an MBA in my workplace but IT is still paying more.
I dropped out of college 3 years after starting straight from high school. Then I decided to go back at 27, for a completely unrelated degree, where most of my old credits were worthless.
I graduated with my Bachelor's at 30 and started my career (I even interned at 30). 8 years later, I love my job and make over 200k per year. I, too, had thoughts that I'd feel silly in school in my late 20s, but once I got started, I absolutely did not. And when I look back, it seems ridiculous to have thought that.
Buddy I’m 30 and still I’m school lol I guess I’m old. I’m in my phd now. All grad school since 2017 I’ve worked full time. But technically I’ve started my career in my field but not really cause I don’t have the degree to get me where I want to be yet.
30 is still 35 years to work and you can get done with a masters in less than 2 years
I hope when you turn 30 you'll look back on this post and laugh at how ridiculous of an idea this is.
Sincerely,
A 31 year old who just pivoted to a new career in tech 6 months ago.
Yep. All about perspective and experience! I remember thinking I was *ancient* at 25 and that the world was ending bc I didn't know what I wanted to do with my life. I'm 33 now and look back and think "oh you sweet summer child" ha. At 25, you haven't even lived long enough for time to be put into perspective for you.
Absolutely! I remember thinking when I was in my late teens/early 20's that if I didn't have a degree by age 26 my life would be over. I was literally suicidal over the idea.
Now I realize how bullshit all of that is. There is no one right way to do life. Some people graduate with a degree at 22 and start a career right away, other people do that later in life. It doesn't really matter when or if you get a degree. There are a lot of different ways to be successful in life or just enjoy life.
I will never consider myself too old to learn something new or try something different than I've ever tried before. It makes me sad when I talk to people in their early or mid 20's who think it's too late for them. If you start learning something at that age, by the time you are in your mid 30's you could be an expert, or very good at whatever it is depending on how much time you spend on it.
We've been fed this bullshit narrative that your life needs to be complete by the age of 30, and after that it's all downhill. Most of my peers are now in their 30's and we have it better than ever. We have more money, more stabilty, more emotional maturity. The 20's are overrated. If you peak in your 20's, that is seriously f-ed up. That's only like 25% or less through your entire potential lifespan.
"I hope I'm wrong, but 30 seems like a late age to be starting your career"
You'll be happy to hear that that's probably the most wrong opinion you'll ever have.
Do you think people only get one chance to start a career at age 22 and that's it? I'm on career #2 at 28, my parents both started businesses in their 50s after 20 years in their respective old careers. In particular, my mom had 1 job for 20 years, went back to school in her 40s, got a new career in her early 50s and is now doing the new business. "Career" is just a job you take more seriously, you can still change it and start a new one whenever.
Whatever hangup you have about this, be it some magical expectation you think you were supposed to reach, find it and eradicate it. Your life is fluid and will change again. The time passes anyways so why not be 30 with a new degree as opposed to being 30 without one?
I’m 29 and just started my career lol. Graduated college late because I joined the military to pay for it. You aren’t too old by any means, I’m on track right now to retire at 55 , albeit my job does provide pensions.
I was a 35 year old freshman. Got my BSEE at 38, now I'm doing great! Having time and/or money to go back to school might be an issue; but age shouldn't be.
My best friend’s dad went back to school and became a lawyer in his early 30s
25 years later, and he’s been partner for a while and quite successful. Put both kids through college and lives in a gorgeous house in the suburbs of major metro area.
Spends his weekends doing Viking reenactment and baking
I’m your age going back to school, education plus experience even if it’s life experience helps strengthen your resume. Also just so you know it’s not uncommon for people to switch career fields even more than once in their lifetime
Go back to school. Plenty of people are doing it, have done it and will be doing it. This is some weird hang up you have about the issue, it’s not shared by the majority.
Lol. I got fired from a terrible and demoralizing job as a hotel restaurant server on my 30th birthday and decided to buckle down and get on a career path (I already had a bachelors degree, but I wasn’t really using it). I’m now making a great salary in my field of choice with an amazing organization I believe in just six years later.
30 is not “too old” to do anything. With current life expectancy it’s maybe 1/3 of the way through your life!
I was kinda in your position, at 26 I got serious at searching for something totally different. I was a chemistry teacher and wanted to become a Software Developer. I couldn’t afford to take on more student debt so I needed another path.
It took me 2 years to find something and now at 33 I can say that it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
Don’t stay in a field you don’t like, get out as quick as you can once you’ve found something you can be passionate about.
Good luck!
Ok but you'll then be 30 and still be in a line of work you hate?
If you're really worried about age (which is not an issue) then change your line of work now, because if you delay it, then you'll just be even older again starting off!
A lot of people are criticizing you for thinking this, but I understand. I felt the same way. That said, they are right. 30 is young to start a new career. You should go back and study if that's what you want to do. I am turning 40 this year and working towards a new career, including paying for college. I would kill to be 26 and starting a new degree.
You'll be okay. Good luck!
I started my career at 31.
I did school and went to uni after took longer and still i am going strong in it on my way towards Enterprise architectur roles and nearing 100k income.
Going to studie after you had some experience is most of the time way better, because it shows that you know how to work and just want to upgrade your skill set.
Yes you will have to take the 2 to 4 year cut in income and maybee take a loan or 10 but if you really know what you want and work for it it will still pay out on the long stretch
Yeah that's complete BS. If you don't want to go back to school because it's difficult to get off your bum (trust me, I get it), makes no sense financially, etc then that's one thing. But don't make excuses on nonsense, and be straight with yourself.
(I had to drop out of school because of $, and going back to school afterwards was fucking hard mentally, physically, socially, etc. )
My parents refused to pay for my 4 year education, and I had to wait until FAFSA considered me financially independent, which was at your age. You might have already gone through a lot in life, which makes you feel old. However, you've gained a lot of work experience and social experience that has shown you the environments you **don't** want. That is valuable information going forward in life.
People change careers at a variety of ages. You could live to 90 and at 30 you'd be only a third of the way in. Have a longer think about it. Also, remember you live once, and no one inhabits your life and body but you. You have freedom of choice outside of your parent's demands. Living is a journey, but you have the right to choose the path.
Whether or not you want to incur debt or if you think that your interests will not sufficiently pay off that debt when they become a career is a *whole* different story and issue.
Funny, I moved away from multiple careers and into computer science at age 29. Keep moving for yourself, if this ain’t it, you deserve better, regardless of age. Also if you’re worried at all what people think, it turns heads (in a good way) and speaks a lot about someone who says “yeah I was a software developer, hated it and went back to school for something else”. Don’t give up on yourself.
One of my pharmacists is on his third job. He started out as an engineer, then a school teacher and now he’s a pharmacist - which you need a doctorate degree to do. It’s admirable!
Depending on your income you may qualify for grants, scholarships, etc. Now that you're 26 your parents' income doesn't come into play for qualification.
Part of the trickiness here is that a lot of people think that a degree is required for a career transition.
I don't have a degree and love the job that I have.
Computer science is a popular field, but it's not the only field.
I'd suggest looking into what you actually want to do and identify the gaps that you have. And find ways to bridge those gaps (considering that college isn't always the answer).
You're absolutely not too old. My OB Gyn didn't start med school until she graduated from undergrad and all 4 of her kids were through kindergarten (about age 35).
At 26 you are not too old for anything. My wife is 41 and at university. I thinking about retraining, which involves university; I'll be mid forties when that happens.
LMAO…I remember when I thought 26 was old. Seriously, though. I changed my career trajectory at age 34. You don’t even necessarily have to go back to school. I bought a GoSkills subscription for $199 annually and learned Lean Six Sigma.
Life is too short to be stuck in a career you hate.
Too old my bottom. I'm 60 and changing up.
With your "Degree" you can go almost anywhere. I've been turned down for jobs I've taught because of no degree.
Start looking for something you want to try. GO FOR IT!!!!
you really need to get out of "my parents" mentality.. you are not your parents.. u can do whatever you like.. yes it will take work.. sacrifice.. blood and sweat.. nothing in this world is free.. we have to pay for everything. so i would advice.. find another way.. school is overrated.. besides the dumbest people i have ever met are the most educated ones... skip school dude! and find your passion.
Judging by your name, you are Dutch? Stop met zeiken...
You're definitely not too old. You're never too old. I know a guy who was in his 50's and left a corporate sales job to work in healthcare, because that's where his heart was. You will be 30 coming out of school with a degree that makes you happy, and you'll be happy for 4 years while working towards your goal.
The only thing you need to wonder: how am I going to afford it? Work hours at a coffeeshop and accept that you are not going to live a life of luxury these next 4 years, but you will be happy. That is what matters.
Be happy, follow your heart. So, go back to school!
A lot of comments telling me that I'm still young enough to do it. Thank you!
The reason I thought I was too old was because my dad's always told me that I need to be completely settled by 30. Like, able to own a house and start a family kind of settled.
So I really thought that it was way too late to go back and study.
Thanks to everyone for being kind and reassuring me.
It sounds like listening to your dad is what got you into this position to begin with. Be your own person and chase your own dreams, it's never too late.
I think, just maybe, you should stop listening to your parents so much...
They enrolled you in a cs program? How is that even possible? You let your parents be WAY to involved in your life.
Settled in this economy? lol good luck.
I'm 40, and just got married. Changed careers three times; military, teacher, now software engineer. Not even back in the states yet.
you got this man.
Your dad lived in a different time. Housing used to be be cheap. College degrees were cheap.
Kids now live with their parents until they’re 25. You have to sell your soul for a mortgage. And you have to have incredible student loans to get a degree.
Having your life “settled” by 30 usually just means you were privileged to be gifted money for a house or your parents died so you got inheritance.
THIS. Also, I think it’s more and more common for the people who are “settled” by age 30 to already be experiencing burnout and want to switch careers. I’ve seen this happen with a lot of my friends who took a more traditional path. I myself am 32 and starting my second career pivot.
This.
My friends and I are in our late 20's. Half of us are considering career changes.
We're also all lucky to own homes or to be planning to. (We all have had very good money management, and no debt other than our student loans and now mortgages.) We also live in a state with a lower cost of living... But that comes with politics that (imo) are horrid and Draconian.
But.. yeah. Luck is basically it now.
All of these fields (maybe not pscyology) need people with CS degrees. You could probably find a job with an environmental consultant or utility right now. Same thing applies to architectural firms and vet clinics.
Honestly psychology isn't all it's cracked up to be anyways. I'm a mental health counselor with a business degree. As long as you have a degree, they don't really care what it's in unless you're a master's level therapist. In which case, it's best to try out a counseling job before committing to all that, because counseling is shitty. It doesn't pay well and it's extremely stressful and hard on the spirit. I know many people who got MSWs and wish they didn't.
In the US, most bachelor's level caseworker positions will take anyone with a pulse and a bachelor's degree. They do not care what it's in.
Both my parents went back to school in their late 40s! My mom was able to get her bachelors and then masters working her butt off while working full time. Definitely possible!! She highly recommends me and my brother to go to school at our age and not when she did. You have plenty of time and are definitely not too old. Best of luck :)
Out of the things you listed, veterinary sounds the most promising. Can you look into what your community college has for vet techs or assistant just to get your foot in the door?
Education doesn't have to come with crippling debts if you work strategically.
Is it just me or does anyone else get triggered when someone says “they’re too old” to do anything?
Like bro you’re literally 26, stop having this loser mentality. -24 year old
I’m back in achool for my 2nd degree. Regardless if you go to school or not you’re gonna be the same age
Hey! 28F here, starting a new career, is never too late
Of course it's way more complicated, but never late
My mother is 52 and did'nt had the chance to go to college pr finish high school, she finished high school at 48 and got a scholarship for college
If you are still interested in architecture, but don't want to go back to school, there are plenty of "adjacent" jobs you can get without a lot of experience, e.g. project management, construction, permitting, landscaping, etc. They might not pay much but its possible to work your way up.
Still, 26 is very young in the profession. Many architects work late into their 70s, or even 80s, partly because the pay isn't great early on, but also because the people who make it past the first few painful years of difficult (and expensive) schooling, exploitative internships, relative financial poverty, and very challenging licensing exams tend to really love it. Many have a financial leg up on other aspiring professionals (wealthy relatives, built-in client base due to said wealthy relatives, etc.). That is just the reality. In short, it is not for everyone, but at 26 you'd have PLENTY of time to grow into it.
Source: me, late 30s architect.
Except for veterinary sciences all of the others require PhDs and the supply exceeds the demand. The sad thing is the “fun” things that appear interesting generally don’t pay the bills and would cost you a ton more.
Who cares if you climb the corporate ladder other than you or maybe your parents. You should max out your 401ks and Roth IRA. Become Financially independent and/or find hobbies that will interest you.
If you are interested in Psychology get an MA and a counseling license.
I went back to vet school at 30. Lots of older students working on it as a second career. With that said, it's about the worst educational "investment" you can make when you compare cost to starting salary. It also has one of if not THE highest suicide rates. Unless someone has been in the thick of vet practice already, I would never recommend it. It's a horrible profession IMO. The animals are great, the clients on average are horrible.
I'm 27 and felt this way at 24.
Didn't go to school then because I felt too old and out of place, I'm currently in my first year of college and HEAVILY regret not starting sooner but I'm so glad I did.
You're not too old just do it or the longer you wait the more you may end up regretting it better now then in 3 years from now when you hate your line of work even more because you feel stuck.
I did this at 24 I’m still in school 6 years later working on my PhD. But I work full time and just landed a great job in my field of statistics. OP isn’t too old to go back
One life. Invest in yourself. The way you feel now is not the way you will feel later. When you change your situation you can regain your confidence and optimism for potential. Cut your losses and move on. Money is necessary but it’s a concept and the amount you need after basic needs is relative. The person or situation that can change your life might be just around the corner don’t give up.
You don’t have to work as a software developer, just because you have a computer science degree. CS, like most engineering degrees, will open the door to tons of opportunities. There are tons of Analyst positions (business, cost, payroll, management, etc.) that would love to higher CS majors; and you wouldn’t even be limited to those jobs. Employers look at CS majors as super smart people, who are capable of complex problem solving, and who can fit many different roles in their company. You could try to find a role like that at a company that will help pay for you to get an MBA/business degree online while you work, and that’ll only offer more opportunities. Don’t limit yourself to the coding/developer type roles you’ve been in so far when looking for a new career.
Good luck, and God bless!
I think maybe a shift in mentality helps here, okay you might not be the best at your job - but think about the solid back up you have that many people don’t. Your skill will forever be in demand. You should be proud of that and your parents were not wrong. You seemed confused and still are, maybe if you had chosen marine biology you would’ve wanted to go into psychology - maybe if you had chosen architecture you would’ve wanted to become a vet. But CS is safe and multidisciplinary you can cross apply your learning to literally any field you stated or have interest in. Moreover - why can’t you save and go back to school if you really wanted to? At least you will have peace of mind that you did it.
You cannot live in a limbo. I did this until I was 21 and I regret it so much it was a miserable time in my life. Leverage what you have to get involved in what you love.
I went back to school at 26. There are several people my age and older in my program. Some people were old enough to be my parents. You'll never be as young as you are now, and you're still young. Conservatively, you've got like 35-40 years left in the workforce, might as well find something that you'll feel is a better fit for you.
If it were me and provided you have the funds, go back to school and study something that you could couple with your CS degree, i.e., get an MS or MA degree. You may find that dking software development in an area you enjoy is more satisfying than just doing the day to day assignmens.
Dude. I'm 52. I have no degree, and I am on my 4th career. (Army, construction, residential home design, IT management) I almost bought a dahlia farm at one point, but I did not understand the business well enough to make it work.
Go do what you want (and are good at). Network with people who can help move you in the direction you want to go. The old, "it's not what you know, it is who you know", is still true. Take jobs that help you pad your resume in the fields you want to work in. Do the work of the job above your current pay grade and train your replacement as soon as you can. You can not get promoted until you demonstrate your ability in the next role and are able to backfill your current role easily. This is true of nearly every job.
I stopped reading after you said you’re 26. Go back to school if you know what you want to go.
1. You’re never “too old”
2. If “too old” had to be a number, then maybe it could be a valid reason at around 46.
I recommend working somewhere that does education reimbursement. A lot of jobs are doing it. I'm 29 years old and I have to support my family by working in food service right now. I'm starting my first year of college next fall with help from my job. So I'll be in my 30s when I get my degree, and I'm so happy for the opportunity!
You are 26 you have tons of time.
If you don’t want to do engineering you could pivot to sales engineer pretty easily, without additional education and you will have a leg up over most candidates. Plus the money is solid.
But if you know you would love one of those other things, go do it. 26 is young, chase your dreams.
Dude. You are 26. I got my BS degree 2 years ago. I was 59. You far from too old. Keep working and study what you are passionate about and then switch careers.
You are 26.......unless job 2 is astronaut, you have plenty of time. Stop freaking out. Go try stuff and figure out what you like. Freak out at 32. Much better age.
Cracking up at 20 somethings saying they’re too old for something. No, you are not too old for much of anything, but I do understand if you just don’t want to go back to school. I will also say that school has the best likely outcome in you successfully shifting your career path. What about started with a small thing like being a vet tech to see if you like the work? That’ll have training, but it won’t be as long as other things. Or see about being an office manager in an architecture firm. You could see if that tickles you. If you’re near an aquarium you can probably volunteer to see if that environment suits you. Just test the waters, so to speak.
You think you’re too old at 26? Talk to my bio professor who’s approaching 70, on his 8th PhD. It’s never too late to reskill, but college may not be the best place to do it. Day courses, trade schools, and even UDEMY videos can help you learn a LOT about a specific field that interests you. Don’t get discouraged! You’ll find your fit
I worked in social services for almost 20 years. I just recently started taking courses part time at the community College for accounting. I'm almost 50. Already found an accounting job, too. I have no real clue what I'm doing, but I'm going to learn. It's never too late. And it's ok to take one class at a time. I feel accomplished and proud of myself.
No one is too old to go back to school! Just go for it. Or, try taking short courses of something. Like, if you’re interested in architecture, try going to sketching classes first before you commit to a studying a full course. For veterinary, look for volunteering opportunities related to animal rescue or something.
The grass is always greener on the other side. Before I switched careers, I thought that photography was fun because most of the photographers who gave talks in the workshops I attended glamorized the lifestyle. When I finally became one, I realized it’s HARD. Though I sometimes crave the stability that corporate jobs offered, I ended up not regretting the choice I made. Yes, it’s hard to secure clients to make sure that I have jobs lined up for the entire year. Yes, it’s hard to wake up at 3am for a 5am shoot. still, overall, I love doing it more than my corporate job. But I was able to arrive to this decision and made the switch after dabbling in some weekend projects, assisting my friends in shoots, volunteered to photograph my nephew’s birthday, and trying to get clients for my own. This way, I could get a feel of what it’s like to work in a particular job before I commit, and if I ended up not enjoying it, at least I still have my job.
I disagree. I think the issue is he still probably sees his parents are superheroes/always intellectually sound, not the flawed and biased humans they are
You are not too old by any stretch of the imagination.
I finished my degree at 40.
36 here, even did it working full time which required international travel and school full time with a family. It can be done.
Yep, I was working full time and single parenting.
Finished at 33, doing a PhD and an MBA simultaneously (and working a part time job). It's not too late for OP, IF they're willing to work hard / put in the hours.
I got a PhD, an MBA, and my pilot’s license as a single father of eight kids when I had stage 12 cancer while working doubles as a crab fisherman and unicycling a tight rope across the Grand Canyon on my PTO. You can do it man.
🫥
Stage 12? 👀🙄 #BoyBye
Slacker
You, sir, you are a hero. I admire you.
I was 41 when i finished mine. You're never too old to learn something new. Go back to school OP.
About to get my first Bachelor's at 39 - next, graduate school. I'll be 45 when I am done!
I finished my Bachelors at 41 and my masters at 51. Still thinking of learning more. Never too old, just be careful of how you do it. I'm still paying off my bachelors degree... But I work for the university where I obtained my masters and paid that as I wbut they paid for ninety percent of it. That's a way to get an education. Work for a university.
I’m 50 and wrapping mine up now
Same became an attorney at 40.
I never finished my degree. And look at me now!
Just started going back to school and I am on the wrong side of 40. But I can't do warehouse anymore. Mentally more than physically.
I started a law degree at 30. Worked as a lawyer for 15 years but ultimately, went back to the area of my initial degree, science. I don't regret doing the second degree or the decade and a half in law. Mostly it was interesting and rewarding.
I started at 29 finished at 41. No regrets.
Came to say exactly the same thing, I'll turn 60 this year and if I decided I wanted something entirely different I'd start learning.
I love this!
I was in grad school with a 56 year old grandmother getting a PhD. She then went on to teach biology until she retired in her 70s.
Might be too poor tho
I did the student loan route. Worked in government for ten years, still here by the way, all my loans are payed off, $288k.
Did the government actually repay them for you? I've heard that that is mostly a scam.
Not a scam if you do everything right. 200k forgiven. The key was actually following instructions, which so many people had a hard time with. I treated my path to forgiveness as a journey that I was solely responsible for navigating, basically as an extra job to make sure I had my employment certified each year, initially made sure that the loans I had qualified (one thing a lot of people didn't bother with that bit them in the ass), and checking that my payments were being counted correctly. The people I know that took responsibility for navigating the process have been forgiven or are on track to be forgiven.
Ah, ok. Seems a little too risky for my liking. The chances of me screwing up and getting screwed on a technically is probably sky high. I always find the word choice "forgiveness" interesting as well. As if these people are acknowledging that they did something wrong.
The public service loan forgiveness is actually written into the promissory note as a method of repayment. Your perception of it is your problem. I never would otherwise worked in government, certainly wouldn't have spent eleven years of my life doing so if it wasn't the most reasonably way to repay my loans. I filled a hard to fill position for ten of indentured servitude. If I left at nine years and ten months, I got nothing forgiven. The only thing wrong is that the institutions figured out that they could just keep raising tuition costs because federal loans would just keep flowing to meet the tuition demand. And that is why we have a severe shortage of veterinarians (and other professionals with a high cost of education) in our country.
But that's not what OP used as the reason for not going bck to school.
He did indeed cite this as one of the main reasons
I see that part now. I must have missed it earlier.
Most of the time that's what "too old" really means
Agree! Not too old at all. If you want a change do it now, otherwise you'll look back at 30, 40, 50...saying "I should've changed when I was..."
My mom graduated at 49, has had a new career for 15yrs
My mom got her master's at 60. Might it be a bit more challenging the older you are? Sure, As things do. Life has more of an impact. But it's 100% possible. I'm 30 and have been thinking about going back for Electrical Engineering.
Also you should do electrical engineering, my brother did it with great success
This gives me so much hope, thanks!
I’m 45, in school with people who range from 20s to 60s. It’s never too late. Many of my classmates are in their 30s— that seems to be a time when a lot of people take different paths and when family roles change. You have 40 or so years left to work. 26 is young.
I agree with this as I'm a 1L (law school) at 49. The thing is, he's telling us that he's too old as a crutch for the double whammy of not being motivated and not having financial support. Those are the actual problems. My advice to him or her is to stay in the field they are in and seek professional help for depression. Once he or she is financially secure; then retrain into something they know they like once they get past their 20's and actually know what they want.
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Exactly, I'm 32, pregnant and trying to finish my degree.. you are at the beginning of your life. There is a lot of time left, when you finish a 4 year degree you'll be 30. So be 30 with a degree and hopefully a nice job, or without a degree and still be miserable.
I’m in my 40s… earned a BS in environmental science last year and now I’m more than halfway through an MBA. I’ve got kids in elementary school and work full time. It’s never too late if someone wants to work for it!
My mom went back for bachelor’s in education (after a BS, MBA, and JD) when she was in her 40s, and later went for a master’s too. Definitely not too old.
I finished my degree at 38. I'm 43 and considering going back for more.
My father went from logger to marine engineer in his 40s. Anything is possible with the right circumstances and determination.
Yeah lol. 36 isn’t even old. Cmon bro
I finished my BS at 39, still considering a Masters at 46. Edit: Never felt old until my US history prof singled me out and said,”We are starting to get into things that you probably remember.”
For me, it makes more sense studying something when you’re more mature. In my case (23M) I still have no clue what I want to do and I certainly didn’t when I was 18 and chose my degree. Obviously in todays society you need a degree to do anything these days so one has to pretend they have it all figured out at 18 and know their passions and join the right clubs so as to be connected to the right people. Some do have it figured out but surely they are the minority. From my experience, the people who seemed the most excited and genuinely interested about their studies have been mature students.
Uh if you think you're too old now, you'll be right fucked in 20 years when you realize you were young then.
48-year-old checking in. This is 100% true.
61 has entered the chat to confirm
Mid 50s here. You'll look back on your 20s and even 30s realizing you had DECADES in front of you.
I've grown to believe it will be a perpetually moving feeling. Being a person is weird.
Imagine giving up at 26 lmao
Yeah, there a famous comic who talks about a failing relationship. When we were dating I thought I couldn’t leave, then we got married and I thought I couldn’t leave, then we had a kid and I thought holy shit I could’ve left that whole time!
Exactly 1000%.
Bro… I didn’t even go to college until I was 30. You need to relax. Life is journey, not a sprint.
Same here. After working for ten years and gaining a chartership in my field (banking), decided to change career completely at 30 and went back to uni and got a Comp Sci degree. 26 is soooo young, anything’s still possible.
I love that “Life is a Journey, not a sprint.”
What makes you think you’re to old to go back to college?
Even if I could find a way to afford it, I'd get out by the time I'm 30. I hope I'm wrong, but 30 seems like a late age to be starting your career.
No offense, but your entire post and way of thinking is built on a false presupposition
Yelp, likely put in his head by the same parents who wouldn’t give him a choice of degree subject.
As long as you're alive, it's never too late to go to college or switch careers. The time is going to pass anyway, no matter what you do.
>but 30 seems like a late age to be starting your career. I just choked on my coffee.
Most doctors start the careers at 30+.
Me too. Since I’m 30 working on my PhD and won’t graduate til 31 or 32 lol
Shhh. I wish I was 30. Just started at 36. 1 year down. 4 more to go.
You got this keep it up. Age ain’t a thang
Ooof but aging is no joke, I can’t do what I could do 15 years ago. But I’m still chugging along. Still died a little on the inside when someone in my class said they were born in 2001. My brain was not processing!
I finished my MBA at 35. I’m doing very well.
Mind speaking more on your experience? I’m about to graduate next Saturday at the age of 29, high marks but it’s in psychology… at least I’ll leave with no debt but I am thinking of pursuing my mba since my minor was in business, how do you think I should go about it? Go and apply and start my masters, look for jobs first and see if they’ll pay for it? Which industries you think I should be looking at? Any help would be great!
I was working on my master while working full time. It’s up to you, not sure about Psychology jobs though. My bachelors is in IT so I do 3/4 IT and the rest is business related. There are jobs that require an MBA in my workplace but IT is still paying more.
I’m downvoting you because your opinion SUCKS! Get real man. 30 is the new 20.
As a 40 year old, 40 is the new 20.
Not even close. I didn't even start my current career path until 42.
I dropped out of college 3 years after starting straight from high school. Then I decided to go back at 27, for a completely unrelated degree, where most of my old credits were worthless. I graduated with my Bachelor's at 30 and started my career (I even interned at 30). 8 years later, I love my job and make over 200k per year. I, too, had thoughts that I'd feel silly in school in my late 20s, but once I got started, I absolutely did not. And when I look back, it seems ridiculous to have thought that.
Oh wow… what did you do??
Degree in computer engineering. I'm now a senior software engineer.
Buddy I’m 30 and still I’m school lol I guess I’m old. I’m in my phd now. All grad school since 2017 I’ve worked full time. But technically I’ve started my career in my field but not really cause I don’t have the degree to get me where I want to be yet. 30 is still 35 years to work and you can get done with a masters in less than 2 years
I hope when you turn 30 you'll look back on this post and laugh at how ridiculous of an idea this is. Sincerely, A 31 year old who just pivoted to a new career in tech 6 months ago.
Yep. All about perspective and experience! I remember thinking I was *ancient* at 25 and that the world was ending bc I didn't know what I wanted to do with my life. I'm 33 now and look back and think "oh you sweet summer child" ha. At 25, you haven't even lived long enough for time to be put into perspective for you.
Absolutely! I remember thinking when I was in my late teens/early 20's that if I didn't have a degree by age 26 my life would be over. I was literally suicidal over the idea. Now I realize how bullshit all of that is. There is no one right way to do life. Some people graduate with a degree at 22 and start a career right away, other people do that later in life. It doesn't really matter when or if you get a degree. There are a lot of different ways to be successful in life or just enjoy life. I will never consider myself too old to learn something new or try something different than I've ever tried before. It makes me sad when I talk to people in their early or mid 20's who think it's too late for them. If you start learning something at that age, by the time you are in your mid 30's you could be an expert, or very good at whatever it is depending on how much time you spend on it. We've been fed this bullshit narrative that your life needs to be complete by the age of 30, and after that it's all downhill. Most of my peers are now in their 30's and we have it better than ever. We have more money, more stabilty, more emotional maturity. The 20's are overrated. If you peak in your 20's, that is seriously f-ed up. That's only like 25% or less through your entire potential lifespan.
"I hope I'm wrong, but 30 seems like a late age to be starting your career" You'll be happy to hear that that's probably the most wrong opinion you'll ever have. Do you think people only get one chance to start a career at age 22 and that's it? I'm on career #2 at 28, my parents both started businesses in their 50s after 20 years in their respective old careers. In particular, my mom had 1 job for 20 years, went back to school in her 40s, got a new career in her early 50s and is now doing the new business. "Career" is just a job you take more seriously, you can still change it and start a new one whenever. Whatever hangup you have about this, be it some magical expectation you think you were supposed to reach, find it and eradicate it. Your life is fluid and will change again. The time passes anyways so why not be 30 with a new degree as opposed to being 30 without one?
I don't think it is.
I’m 29 and just started my career lol. Graduated college late because I joined the military to pay for it. You aren’t too old by any means, I’m on track right now to retire at 55 , albeit my job does provide pensions.
I started a second career at 28, and a third at 35. The fact that you think 30 is old is… laughable.
I was a 35 year old freshman. Got my BSEE at 38, now I'm doing great! Having time and/or money to go back to school might be an issue; but age shouldn't be.
My best friend’s dad went back to school and became a lawyer in his early 30s 25 years later, and he’s been partner for a while and quite successful. Put both kids through college and lives in a gorgeous house in the suburbs of major metro area. Spends his weekends doing Viking reenactment and baking
What country are you in? In the US I don’t think this would be a problem at all, but maybe in other countries it is?
I’m your age going back to school, education plus experience even if it’s life experience helps strengthen your resume. Also just so you know it’s not uncommon for people to switch career fields even more than once in their lifetime
Go back to school. Plenty of people are doing it, have done it and will be doing it. This is some weird hang up you have about the issue, it’s not shared by the majority.
Lol. I got fired from a terrible and demoralizing job as a hotel restaurant server on my 30th birthday and decided to buckle down and get on a career path (I already had a bachelors degree, but I wasn’t really using it). I’m now making a great salary in my field of choice with an amazing organization I believe in just six years later. 30 is not “too old” to do anything. With current life expectancy it’s maybe 1/3 of the way through your life!
I was kinda in your position, at 26 I got serious at searching for something totally different. I was a chemistry teacher and wanted to become a Software Developer. I couldn’t afford to take on more student debt so I needed another path. It took me 2 years to find something and now at 33 I can say that it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Don’t stay in a field you don’t like, get out as quick as you can once you’ve found something you can be passionate about. Good luck!
Ok but you'll then be 30 and still be in a line of work you hate? If you're really worried about age (which is not an issue) then change your line of work now, because if you delay it, then you'll just be even older again starting off!
Full retirement age in the US is 67. So you likely would have 37 years of work ahead of you. Perspective.
A lot of people are criticizing you for thinking this, but I understand. I felt the same way. That said, they are right. 30 is young to start a new career. You should go back and study if that's what you want to do. I am turning 40 this year and working towards a new career, including paying for college. I would kill to be 26 and starting a new degree. You'll be okay. Good luck!
I started my career at 31. I did school and went to uni after took longer and still i am going strong in it on my way towards Enterprise architectur roles and nearing 100k income. Going to studie after you had some experience is most of the time way better, because it shows that you know how to work and just want to upgrade your skill set. Yes you will have to take the 2 to 4 year cut in income and maybee take a loan or 10 but if you really know what you want and work for it it will still pay out on the long stretch
Do you have children?
Yeah that's complete BS. If you don't want to go back to school because it's difficult to get off your bum (trust me, I get it), makes no sense financially, etc then that's one thing. But don't make excuses on nonsense, and be straight with yourself. (I had to drop out of school because of $, and going back to school afterwards was fucking hard mentally, physically, socially, etc. )
You would not believe how completely wrong you are 😂
Unless you live somewhere where the average life expectancy is like low 30's it's never too late.
🤦🏻♀️
Na dude I'm older than you by couple years and I went back for a second degree. I'll finish when I'm 30
My parents refused to pay for my 4 year education, and I had to wait until FAFSA considered me financially independent, which was at your age. You might have already gone through a lot in life, which makes you feel old. However, you've gained a lot of work experience and social experience that has shown you the environments you **don't** want. That is valuable information going forward in life. People change careers at a variety of ages. You could live to 90 and at 30 you'd be only a third of the way in. Have a longer think about it. Also, remember you live once, and no one inhabits your life and body but you. You have freedom of choice outside of your parent's demands. Living is a journey, but you have the right to choose the path. Whether or not you want to incur debt or if you think that your interests will not sufficiently pay off that debt when they become a career is a *whole* different story and issue.
Do you not know the average life expectancy of a human or something?
Funny, I moved away from multiple careers and into computer science at age 29. Keep moving for yourself, if this ain’t it, you deserve better, regardless of age. Also if you’re worried at all what people think, it turns heads (in a good way) and speaks a lot about someone who says “yeah I was a software developer, hated it and went back to school for something else”. Don’t give up on yourself.
One of my pharmacists is on his third job. He started out as an engineer, then a school teacher and now he’s a pharmacist - which you need a doctorate degree to do. It’s admirable!
Thanks for this! I too need the inspiration sometimes.
That's awesome, thank you very much! Did you pay for your own studies when you went back? I'm not sure how I'd afford it.
Loans, a full time job, and a part time job.
Depending on your income you may qualify for grants, scholarships, etc. Now that you're 26 your parents' income doesn't come into play for qualification.
You’re 26. Go back to school lol. I’m 26 and doing the same shit just for a career change.
Part of the trickiness here is that a lot of people think that a degree is required for a career transition. I don't have a degree and love the job that I have. Computer science is a popular field, but it's not the only field. I'd suggest looking into what you actually want to do and identify the gaps that you have. And find ways to bridge those gaps (considering that college isn't always the answer).
This! Especially early on, the fact that one has a degree is often more important than what the subject was.
You're absolutely not too old. My OB Gyn didn't start med school until she graduated from undergrad and all 4 of her kids were through kindergarten (about age 35).
At 26 you are not too old for anything. My wife is 41 and at university. I thinking about retraining, which involves university; I'll be mid forties when that happens.
LMAO…I remember when I thought 26 was old. Seriously, though. I changed my career trajectory at age 34. You don’t even necessarily have to go back to school. I bought a GoSkills subscription for $199 annually and learned Lean Six Sigma. Life is too short to be stuck in a career you hate.
Too old my bottom. I'm 60 and changing up. With your "Degree" you can go almost anywhere. I've been turned down for jobs I've taught because of no degree. Start looking for something you want to try. GO FOR IT!!!!
you really need to get out of "my parents" mentality.. you are not your parents.. u can do whatever you like.. yes it will take work.. sacrifice.. blood and sweat.. nothing in this world is free.. we have to pay for everything. so i would advice.. find another way.. school is overrated.. besides the dumbest people i have ever met are the most educated ones... skip school dude! and find your passion.
Judging by your name, you are Dutch? Stop met zeiken... You're definitely not too old. You're never too old. I know a guy who was in his 50's and left a corporate sales job to work in healthcare, because that's where his heart was. You will be 30 coming out of school with a degree that makes you happy, and you'll be happy for 4 years while working towards your goal. The only thing you need to wonder: how am I going to afford it? Work hours at a coffeeshop and accept that you are not going to live a life of luxury these next 4 years, but you will be happy. That is what matters. Be happy, follow your heart. So, go back to school!
Close! South African, Lekker is a general phrase that we all use here! I appreciate the advice!
A lot of comments telling me that I'm still young enough to do it. Thank you! The reason I thought I was too old was because my dad's always told me that I need to be completely settled by 30. Like, able to own a house and start a family kind of settled. So I really thought that it was way too late to go back and study. Thanks to everyone for being kind and reassuring me.
Ignore your dad. Make your own decisions
It sounds like listening to your dad is what got you into this position to begin with. Be your own person and chase your own dreams, it's never too late.
I think, just maybe, you should stop listening to your parents so much... They enrolled you in a cs program? How is that even possible? You let your parents be WAY to involved in your life.
Settled in this economy? lol good luck. I'm 40, and just got married. Changed careers three times; military, teacher, now software engineer. Not even back in the states yet. you got this man.
I appreciate that!
Your dad lived in a different time. Housing used to be be cheap. College degrees were cheap. Kids now live with their parents until they’re 25. You have to sell your soul for a mortgage. And you have to have incredible student loans to get a degree. Having your life “settled” by 30 usually just means you were privileged to be gifted money for a house or your parents died so you got inheritance.
THIS. Also, I think it’s more and more common for the people who are “settled” by age 30 to already be experiencing burnout and want to switch careers. I’ve seen this happen with a lot of my friends who took a more traditional path. I myself am 32 and starting my second career pivot.
This. My friends and I are in our late 20's. Half of us are considering career changes. We're also all lucky to own homes or to be planning to. (We all have had very good money management, and no debt other than our student loans and now mortgages.) We also live in a state with a lower cost of living... But that comes with politics that (imo) are horrid and Draconian. But.. yeah. Luck is basically it now.
Deadlines like that usually do more harm than good... having goals is great but tying it to a specific year or age will almost never go as planned
Too old at 26?????? Oh honey, you are misguided….not even close.
All of these fields (maybe not pscyology) need people with CS degrees. You could probably find a job with an environmental consultant or utility right now. Same thing applies to architectural firms and vet clinics.
Honestly psychology isn't all it's cracked up to be anyways. I'm a mental health counselor with a business degree. As long as you have a degree, they don't really care what it's in unless you're a master's level therapist. In which case, it's best to try out a counseling job before committing to all that, because counseling is shitty. It doesn't pay well and it's extremely stressful and hard on the spirit. I know many people who got MSWs and wish they didn't. In the US, most bachelor's level caseworker positions will take anyone with a pulse and a bachelor's degree. They do not care what it's in.
Both my parents went back to school in their late 40s! My mom was able to get her bachelors and then masters working her butt off while working full time. Definitely possible!! She highly recommends me and my brother to go to school at our age and not when she did. You have plenty of time and are definitely not too old. Best of luck :)
Out of the things you listed, veterinary sounds the most promising. Can you look into what your community college has for vet techs or assistant just to get your foot in the door? Education doesn't have to come with crippling debts if you work strategically.
👋 66 year old student here. Having such fun.
Is it just me or does anyone else get triggered when someone says “they’re too old” to do anything? Like bro you’re literally 26, stop having this loser mentality. -24 year old I’m back in achool for my 2nd degree. Regardless if you go to school or not you’re gonna be the same age
You're 26. You're a kid. Go and get your dream. 🩵
Why not to try QA? I switched at the age 37)))
Hey! 28F here, starting a new career, is never too late Of course it's way more complicated, but never late My mother is 52 and did'nt had the chance to go to college pr finish high school, she finished high school at 48 and got a scholarship for college
If you are still interested in architecture, but don't want to go back to school, there are plenty of "adjacent" jobs you can get without a lot of experience, e.g. project management, construction, permitting, landscaping, etc. They might not pay much but its possible to work your way up. Still, 26 is very young in the profession. Many architects work late into their 70s, or even 80s, partly because the pay isn't great early on, but also because the people who make it past the first few painful years of difficult (and expensive) schooling, exploitative internships, relative financial poverty, and very challenging licensing exams tend to really love it. Many have a financial leg up on other aspiring professionals (wealthy relatives, built-in client base due to said wealthy relatives, etc.). That is just the reality. In short, it is not for everyone, but at 26 you'd have PLENTY of time to grow into it. Source: me, late 30s architect.
Except for veterinary sciences all of the others require PhDs and the supply exceeds the demand. The sad thing is the “fun” things that appear interesting generally don’t pay the bills and would cost you a ton more. Who cares if you climb the corporate ladder other than you or maybe your parents. You should max out your 401ks and Roth IRA. Become Financially independent and/or find hobbies that will interest you. If you are interested in Psychology get an MA and a counseling license.
I went back to vet school at 30. Lots of older students working on it as a second career. With that said, it's about the worst educational "investment" you can make when you compare cost to starting salary. It also has one of if not THE highest suicide rates. Unless someone has been in the thick of vet practice already, I would never recommend it. It's a horrible profession IMO. The animals are great, the clients on average are horrible.
I was 32 and a single unsupported mom of 3 when I finished my first degree. It's never too late.
From the title, I thought you'd be at least 50. You're young af. You have more than enough time to go learn something else.
I'm 27 and felt this way at 24. Didn't go to school then because I felt too old and out of place, I'm currently in my first year of college and HEAVILY regret not starting sooner but I'm so glad I did. You're not too old just do it or the longer you wait the more you may end up regretting it better now then in 3 years from now when you hate your line of work even more because you feel stuck.
Dude I went back to college at 31 years old. You aren't too old to study. I get my bachelors degree this year.
Go back to school. You’ll forget any of it happened by the time you’re 35 and be so much happier.
I did this at 24 I’m still in school 6 years later working on my PhD. But I work full time and just landed a great job in my field of statistics. OP isn’t too old to go back
I started my current career at 31. I had similar concerns when pivoting away from education, and I'm so glad i did
I know someone that was in IT. At the age of 40 he went back to study medicine. Is now a successful doctor
I am 10 yrs older and entering my second career goal. You are definitely not too old. Most people changes career many times.
26 years old is not too old to go back to school. Don’t use your age as an excuse to be miserable.
As many others have said, you’re not too old. My husband is finishing his doctorate and he’s 44.
Go back to school. Do it while you can.
One life. Invest in yourself. The way you feel now is not the way you will feel later. When you change your situation you can regain your confidence and optimism for potential. Cut your losses and move on. Money is necessary but it’s a concept and the amount you need after basic needs is relative. The person or situation that can change your life might be just around the corner don’t give up.
You don’t have to work as a software developer, just because you have a computer science degree. CS, like most engineering degrees, will open the door to tons of opportunities. There are tons of Analyst positions (business, cost, payroll, management, etc.) that would love to higher CS majors; and you wouldn’t even be limited to those jobs. Employers look at CS majors as super smart people, who are capable of complex problem solving, and who can fit many different roles in their company. You could try to find a role like that at a company that will help pay for you to get an MBA/business degree online while you work, and that’ll only offer more opportunities. Don’t limit yourself to the coding/developer type roles you’ve been in so far when looking for a new career. Good luck, and God bless!
I think maybe a shift in mentality helps here, okay you might not be the best at your job - but think about the solid back up you have that many people don’t. Your skill will forever be in demand. You should be proud of that and your parents were not wrong. You seemed confused and still are, maybe if you had chosen marine biology you would’ve wanted to go into psychology - maybe if you had chosen architecture you would’ve wanted to become a vet. But CS is safe and multidisciplinary you can cross apply your learning to literally any field you stated or have interest in. Moreover - why can’t you save and go back to school if you really wanted to? At least you will have peace of mind that you did it. You cannot live in a limbo. I did this until I was 21 and I regret it so much it was a miserable time in my life. Leverage what you have to get involved in what you love.
I went back to school at 26. There are several people my age and older in my program. Some people were old enough to be my parents. You'll never be as young as you are now, and you're still young. Conservatively, you've got like 35-40 years left in the workforce, might as well find something that you'll feel is a better fit for you.
If it were me and provided you have the funds, go back to school and study something that you could couple with your CS degree, i.e., get an MS or MA degree. You may find that dking software development in an area you enjoy is more satisfying than just doing the day to day assignmens.
Bro I'm 39 going back to college...you have all the time🤣
Dude. I'm 52. I have no degree, and I am on my 4th career. (Army, construction, residential home design, IT management) I almost bought a dahlia farm at one point, but I did not understand the business well enough to make it work. Go do what you want (and are good at). Network with people who can help move you in the direction you want to go. The old, "it's not what you know, it is who you know", is still true. Take jobs that help you pad your resume in the fields you want to work in. Do the work of the job above your current pay grade and train your replacement as soon as you can. You can not get promoted until you demonstrate your ability in the next role and are able to backfill your current role easily. This is true of nearly every job.
Too old? I’m 27 and graduating Saturday don’t insult me like that 😭
I stopped reading after you said you’re 26. Go back to school if you know what you want to go. 1. You’re never “too old” 2. If “too old” had to be a number, then maybe it could be a valid reason at around 46.
I recommend working somewhere that does education reimbursement. A lot of jobs are doing it. I'm 29 years old and I have to support my family by working in food service right now. I'm starting my first year of college next fall with help from my job. So I'll be in my 30s when I get my degree, and I'm so happy for the opportunity!
I finished my degree last year, class of 2022, at 35. You are not too old whatsoever.
Went back at 25 to get my masters. Do it now while you have energy and stamina to work and go to school!!
If you’re too old to study and switch careers, then many of us are doomed. (38)
“I’m 26”. Lol what. You are a child still (no offense) :)
You are 26 you have tons of time. If you don’t want to do engineering you could pivot to sales engineer pretty easily, without additional education and you will have a leg up over most candidates. Plus the money is solid. But if you know you would love one of those other things, go do it. 26 is young, chase your dreams.
26yo+single. Go back to school, pursue your passion. put an end to Parent's manipulation in terms of Univ courses.
Dude. You are 26. I got my BS degree 2 years ago. I was 59. You far from too old. Keep working and study what you are passionate about and then switch careers.
46 year-old nurse here. I'm 1.5 years from finishing an accounting degree.
Im 39 with 10 years in my trade. I have a 37 year old apprentice. Not to be rude, but your not even 30. There isnt much your too old for .
You are 26.......unless job 2 is astronaut, you have plenty of time. Stop freaking out. Go try stuff and figure out what you like. Freak out at 32. Much better age.
Didn’t read past the first line. No such thing as too old to study, and certainly not in your 20s.
Cracking up at 20 somethings saying they’re too old for something. No, you are not too old for much of anything, but I do understand if you just don’t want to go back to school. I will also say that school has the best likely outcome in you successfully shifting your career path. What about started with a small thing like being a vet tech to see if you like the work? That’ll have training, but it won’t be as long as other things. Or see about being an office manager in an architecture firm. You could see if that tickles you. If you’re near an aquarium you can probably volunteer to see if that environment suits you. Just test the waters, so to speak.
26? Hahahahaha!!!! Dude
You're 26. Did your brain die on graduation day?
26 is not too old for almost anything
I got my law degree (at night working full time) at 38 and my second bar license at 55. You aren’t too old.
You think you’re too old at 26? Talk to my bio professor who’s approaching 70, on his 8th PhD. It’s never too late to reskill, but college may not be the best place to do it. Day courses, trade schools, and even UDEMY videos can help you learn a LOT about a specific field that interests you. Don’t get discouraged! You’ll find your fit
YOU'RE NOT TOO OLD!!! I changed careers in my mid 30s.
26 is not too old for anything. I stopped reading when I ready that lol.
You’re 26. You’re a baby.
26 female here and I’ve just started a degree. It’s never too late
I worked in social services for almost 20 years. I just recently started taking courses part time at the community College for accounting. I'm almost 50. Already found an accounting job, too. I have no real clue what I'm doing, but I'm going to learn. It's never too late. And it's ok to take one class at a time. I feel accomplished and proud of myself.
You are too old. I am 44 years old and going to get my degree.
You're a fetus. Go back to school.
No one is too old to go back to school! Just go for it. Or, try taking short courses of something. Like, if you’re interested in architecture, try going to sketching classes first before you commit to a studying a full course. For veterinary, look for volunteering opportunities related to animal rescue or something. The grass is always greener on the other side. Before I switched careers, I thought that photography was fun because most of the photographers who gave talks in the workshops I attended glamorized the lifestyle. When I finally became one, I realized it’s HARD. Though I sometimes crave the stability that corporate jobs offered, I ended up not regretting the choice I made. Yes, it’s hard to secure clients to make sure that I have jobs lined up for the entire year. Yes, it’s hard to wake up at 3am for a 5am shoot. still, overall, I love doing it more than my corporate job. But I was able to arrive to this decision and made the switch after dabbling in some weekend projects, assisting my friends in shoots, volunteered to photograph my nephew’s birthday, and trying to get clients for my own. This way, I could get a feel of what it’s like to work in a particular job before I commit, and if I ended up not enjoying it, at least I still have my job.
I'm too old. I'm 26.. LOL fuck.
You're quite old.
You sound like a spoiled brat
I disagree. I think the issue is he still probably sees his parents are superheroes/always intellectually sound, not the flawed and biased humans they are
Thanks