Career Change for the Better

by Viva
(CA)

Several years ago, I decided to make a career change and go from one college campus to another one. I had been at the first one for more than eleven years. During that time, I saw very little institutional change for the better and mostly for the worse. I also did not make very much money and had very few benefits or respect. It got so bad that I felt physically uncomfortable when I went into this workplace. I realized that I could not stay there because it was a dead end in so many ways.

I knew that another college nearby would be a much better fit for me. They paid better, had a nicer and more collegial atmosphere, produced better transfer students, and were friendlier as well as being much more organized and progressive. I made sure not to burn my bridges behind me when I left the other campus; I left on good terms. I don’t think it’s wise to make enemies as one leaves a workplace or career behind.

That is some of the advice that I would impart to those considering a change in careers. Also, I would recommend not staying so long in a place which is inert and only makes people miserable. It simply is not worth it.