Thinking of taking some classes

[mhall]

Thanks for all the support guys, I'm all over the place right now. This site and it's members are first rate without any doubt.

I've been searching the web and am very intrigued by this prospect. A two year associate degree can get you on as a OT assistant and they make decent money with job security and good benny packages. My wife is on board, but we are just scared, me especially. An old dog like me has been doing the same thing for alot of years and change is somewhat frightening I must admit.

Again thanks for the kindness, alot of good friends on this fine website.

[Dave Stewart]

Go for it Mark...I got my education while working three jobs and going to school full time...I was a high school (kick out rather than drop out...lol). Got my GED and then got my college degree. Did this all when I was in my 30's and had a family to take care of all at the same time...had commitments in the military at same time...if you want it bad enough you can do it. If I said it was easy, I would be lying, but typically nothing worth having comes easy.

[roadrunner]

mhall you will do fine your common sense will be a big help getting through school. This it is a profession that will be easy to find employment where ever you are. I hope your industry come back soon as I manufacture vinyl windows and we have been hit hard for three years.

[HURRICANEBOB]

Mike,
I think you's be successful in anything you take on.

Some thoughts:
a. Do check with the KY Unemplyment folks in advance and see how many more benefits are available to you if you make the move after a layoff vs voluntarily.
b. Remember U.S. is offering Pell Grants that are easier to qualify for now, and can pay a major piece of your re-trainign to a new career. College Admissions/counselor can get you forms and advice on applying.

A and B together. In some cases after a layoff, you can draw unemplyment checks, while the Pell grants pay for the school tuition and textbook/required material costs. You don't have to go full time to qualify for Pell Grants right now, you could go part time. That means cash flow while retraining, without the distractions of a current job, and still having more time with the family.

Hope it helps. Only concern I have is some day when I'm laying in a recovery room with a busted up back, to have you come in and introduce yourself as the guy who's gonna tweak my spine

Sure you don't want to thry Gynocology?

[Big Gills]

Mark, I encourage you to continue with your studies and return to school. I went back to school a few years ago in my mid 40's and lots of people thought I was crazy and too old and others were supportive. I wanted more education to get better jobs. At first, I thought it was tough cuz I didnt have a clue what they were talking about but then it got easier until I enjoyed it immensely. I never did well in school before and for the first time I was getting A's and B's. That was unheard of for me. It felt good. My work experience and maturity helped greatly and was a positive. Good luck to you!

[RoadToad]

MHall, it sounds like you are following your heart, and when you do that, you'll be successful. Sorry if that sounds sappy, but I really do believe that. Best of luck to you.