“Too Old to Go Back to School?”

I’ve been an insurance broker for the last 18 years, and in the last few years, I’ve really been feeling burnt-out. After much deliberation, I’ve realized that I really want to help people, and am considering going back to school for social work. The problem is I’m already 40 years old. The program is five years long; if I graduate at 45, I’ll be left with only 20 years to actually work in the field. It just doesn’t seem worth it. What’s your take?

Too old for school

A simple calculation shows that you went into the insurance field at age 22. If you had asked my opinion on becoming a social worker then, the answer would likely have been: You’re a bit too young.

Go get some work and life experience, then think about using it to help other people. In fact, I believe someone who is mid-career is at the ideal age to become a social worker, and many programs specifically market to the “mature” adult.

As things stand, you’ve spent close to 20 years in one profession — and I’m guessing you have a lot to show for it. It provided you with an income, colleagues who are likely friends, extensive knowledge, and a vast network of professional relationships. That’s nothing to sneeze at, and you did it all in less than 20 years. Would you say it was a mistake? Not worth it? I’d imagine it was the right thing then, and with the passing of time, you’ve changed and your life goals have changed, and it’s time for something new.

Forty is a typical age to reevaluate one’s career choice. You’re at the next stage of life, and who you are should be different, which often calls for a change in what you spend your days doing. You have another solid 20 years to climb the next mountain, and that seems like a very legitimate amount of time to warrant dedicating a portion of your resources toward it over the next five years.