Violet Said:

Career change when you're 38?

We Answered:

With the economy the way it is, it's worth it. Besides, why work not doing something you love? If you have something you want to do and the schooling is cheap, find a quick job while you're learning just to hold you over. Be what you want to be, you're certainly young enough so it won't be too hard of a transition. You'll be 40 when you finish school if you get started now, so go for it! If there's opportunity- take it. It may not be that way forever so grab it while it lasts.

Zachary Said:

Has anyone ever changed careers totally? Say from Software Developer to something else? Just an example.?

We Answered:

Heck yes. Every single one of my jobs has had nothing to do with any other jobs I've had.

The early jobs: Waitress, chime maker, artist's model

The past 17 years: Maintenance Engineer for a video production company, then Psychiatric practice office manager, now I'm a Certified Nursery technician, and I work outside much of the time, tending plants, and helping people diagnose problems and make selections for their gardens. (I'd had enough with sitting at a desk all day)

"Do what you love - the money will follow". (okay, sometimes the money follows a bit sluggishly - but I've discovered I'd rather be happy and make a little less, than miserable with more.

Nora Said:

any suggestions for someone seeking a career change? any thoughts and/or personal experiences you can share?

We Answered:

Entrepreneurship !
It's not an industry , but entrepreneurship remains one of the most recession proof career choices. Recession are a time of opportunity - the economy is changing and the real and perceived risks of going into entrepreneurship are minimized when compared to employment . WWW.SWCENERGY.AMBITENERGY.BIZ

Andy Said:

What is the best way to become a software engineer/developer if I have a BA degree in business?

We Answered:

Well technically you can enroll as an unclassified student and just take the undergrad computer science courses you need. Unfortunately, unclassified students are given the last chance to register and since courses run so full these days, it may be next to impossible to get any seats.

Hence, the best way is to go back and be registered as a student in a second bachelor's program.

Overall it sounds to me you're looking for a shortcut so as not to complete the necessary undergrad courses yet still want to go to a grad school in computer science. Doesn't work that way.

Edna Said:

How horrible is it to be a highschool music teacher?

We Answered:

If you can find the right situation, it can be great. Basically, as long as you're teaching what interests you about music to kids who want to learn it (elective classes) it's hard for me to imagine anything much better. If, however, you get stuck teaching "Music History for the Uninterested" or something that you really don't understand or like, it can be hell. So good luck with the search for a good fit!