New path could lead back to school

In a few short weeks, one mom’s two teenagers won’t be the only members of the family beginning a new school year. Natalie Fortier of Belmont just enrolled in classes at a local community college.

Still, Fortier dreamed of having a job she loved. She had been mostly happy in her work and done well. But lately, she had started to feel increasingly bored and dissatisfied. She longed to experience true fulfillment and satisfaction in her work.

“I want a job that I will love,” Fortier said when we first spoke. “I have always wanted to go back to school, but I’m not sure what I want to study. I feel lost.”

Through a few months of career-coaching sessions and the many action steps she took, Fortier learned a lot about her ideal work. She started applying for positions in her chosen field to gain experience, and she found a degree program that would help prepare her for her new career.

If you are thinking of going back to school, consider some of the steps that helped Fortier decide which path to take.

Discover your passion.

What do you love to do in your spare time? What do you do naturally well? Which types of activities do you enjoy in your current work? What would you do if you knew you could not fail? Answers to these questions may help you uncover the key to a job you will love.

Explore the possibilities.

Try on a few different hats and see which one fits. Volunteer or job shadow in a place you may want to work. Request informational interviews with people working in a field you are interested in. Check with your current employer about tuition reimbursement programs and take a class or two.

Check out hot jobs.

Find information online on hundreds of different types of jobs, including the required education. O*Net, the Occupational Information Network, at www.onlineonetcenter.org or the Occupational Outlook Handbook at www.bls.gov/oco are two reputable sites.

Do your research.

The options for continuing your education are endless. Whether considering a distance learning program or a university close by, gather enough information about the academic programs to make sure your needs are met.

Like Fortier, many of us want to feel passionate about our work. Her path is taking her back to the classroom and moving her toward a new career. Good luck to her and those of you who choose your own path that will bring you fulfillment in your work.

Michelle Whitenack, M.Ed., CHES is a career and development coach and owner of Career Spark. For more information, call 244-8489 or visit www.career-spark.biz.