Career Information

Many adults have begun or are contemplating "mid-career" change. You may want to move from being a practitioner to the classroom or you might want to move into a new area of work that frees you from your current routine. If you are thinking about changing your career, we have tools, tips and resources for making the transition a smooth one. From assessment activities and educational requirements to the opportunities available to you in the new career area, we are your "career counselor." Further, we can help direct you to the best programs that will speed your transition. Follow the links below to access tools available in the The Teacher Center Career Center.

Before you launch in to your new academic program or begin taking courses, you should take steps to make sure your educational goals are aligned with your career goals. Both sets of goals may be in transition—that's ok—as long as you have each working to meet your needs. There are a number of resources and information links for you on the educational "side" of the The Teacher Center. We have assembled an entire suite of resources and information in our Career Center for you, from self-assessment tools, a career matching assistant, to lists of careers and other career resources. We also have provided links to state resources that can help you.

If you are in the midst of a mid-career change or contemplating one, here are some tips for you to consider as you ponder the future.

1. Be realistic about your job skills and interests, both now and in the future. Utilize your skills and build upon them in your educational and career pursuits.
   
   
2. Get educated about job prospects in new fields by doing extensive research. It's much easier now with the Web and various tools at your disposal, including online "affinity" groups that will provide you with insights into new career fields.
   
   
3. Learn what educational programs best meet your career goals as you prepare to make a change. Often it might not be a graduate degree that will get you there (although we would welcome your participation and have lots of options for you!). For example, if you are a businessman or businesswoman and want to move into teaching, specialized alternative certification programs are now available (visit the "Educators" page). A course, series of courses, a certificate program and possibly a non-credit course might open the door for you.
   
   
4. Be sure that you are in control of the process. Career counselors, placement companies and search firms can be of help, but only based upon your needs and objectives. Be sure you are having them help you find the right niche and are responding to your needs.
   
   
5. Before "jumping" into a new career, find opportunities to learn more about it, what makes one successful in it, and the market conditions. Talk with friends, neighbors and colleagues in the field, volunteer and visit trade and professional shows, as examples, to ensure you are thorough in your search.
   
   
6. Develop and use a plan to for facilitating your career change. Transitions can be challenging and need to be managed and carefully thought out.
   
   
7. Use your existing network of personal and professional contacts, college and university classmates, and others connections in you life to help you in facilitating your career change. They can help.
   
   
8. Finally, once you have determined your (new) career objective and the path to attaining it, go for it. Develop an educational plan that best meets your needs and plunge right in. Use the tools on the The Teacher Center to help you find a course, program, or other kinds of assistance.

Good luck!