I’m in my early 20s and currently working in a corporate HR role that pays well for my age, and overall I do enjoy what I do. Nothing I’m overly passionate about, but a good paying job. I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology and naturally moved into HR after an internship in college.
That said, becoming a teacher is something I’ve wanted my entire life. It’s always been the career I imagined for myself. I graduated high school during COVID, and seeing the challenges teachers faced at that time made me hesitate. Since then, I’ve also heard a lot about how much school environments and student behavior have changed post-COVID, which has added to my uncertainty.
Lately, I’ve been seriously considering whether I should pursue teaching and follow what I’ve always felt called to do. The biggest thing holding me back is the financial trade-off. I would likely be taking a pay cut and potentially limiting my long-term earning growth compared to staying in the corporate world.
I’ve also heard that dealing with parents and administration can be challenging, but honestly, working in HR, I feel like I’ve already developed a strong ability to navigate difficult conversations and personalities. But I feel like there is a lot of stress and chaos for teachers in this day and age. I feel like I see a lot of the stressors and pain points and a l out of people leaving the schools and changing their careers.
I feel a bit torn between choosing stability and growth in my current path versus taking a risk to pursue something that’s always felt meaningful to me.
Just want to hear any thoughts or opinions.