Hi Unc!
I’m in my late 20s, have a decent job, drive a decent car and have my own apartment. I have a good group of friends that I hang out with and I date fairly regularly . . . so what’s the problem right? I feel lost. It looks like I have everything together, but in reality, I’m bored with my job and I’m tired of dating. I want to find that one person that I can connect and be with for the rest of my life.
I have thought about quitting my job and going to college to pursue a degree in education, but is it too late to go back to school? More importantly, how am I going to finance school? I have friends who are stuck in so much student debt that they are struggling more than I am financially. Most of them cannot even find jobs in the fields of their study.
Further, if I go back to school, how am I going to find anyone interested in a long-term relationship with someone who is in their late 20s and just now going to college to get a degree? I can’t imagine that there is a big demand for partners that have no clue where they are going with their future.
I feel like I have missed my chance and now I’m stuck on this treadmill that keeps spinning. Worse, I can’t find a way to jump off of it. Any ideas that you might have would be helpful.
Spinning in Seattle
Dear Spinning,
You are experiencing the same reality that a lot of people share each New Year. You are feeling lost and have no clue what your future holds. That honest assessment of your situation is your first step off of the treadmill. Now all you need to do is plan and prepare.
Ensure that you fully understand the costs of your education and prepare to live like a student on a shoestring budget. Investigate employer assistance programs, scholarships and grants to offset costs. This is particularly important in the field of education as the need for qualified teachers is immense. Invest your time researching the various colleges you are interested in attending and their tuition assistance programs. Also, consider attending part-time as you continue to work and pay for credits as you progress. My nephew obtained his degree this way.
Finally, stop focusing on the issue of your age and finding a long-term partner. College will be filled with non-traditional like-minded individuals for you to share your journey. Once you enter the field of your choice, those numbers will only become that more focused for you. Relax and focus on your journey – love will find you when you least expect it. Keep your head on a swivel and spot your opportunity when it arises. And it will. I promise. 🙂
Unc
