Changing careers, OT/PT/Social Work/Counselor?

[Syndirelah]

Hi Everyone,

Just wanted to plug the collective wisdom of the board....

I currently work as a military bandsman (bandswoman...!), a career for which I have worked very hard. But it's looking like looming budget cuts will affect my position within the next few years, and I'm researching alternative career routes. I do love music and performing, but I'd like to move into a field that isn't so isolating and where I can interact and help people.

My father passed away a few years ago after battling leukemia, and I left grad school and moved home to help out at the time. I spent a year sitting in the hospital, meeting and watching social workers, doctors, OT's/PT's, counselors.. and I really appreciated the work they did.

Ive been researching pre-requisites and programs, and I'm wondering if anyone with experience in any of these fields can offer insight? I've read that social work is often too exhausting and the burn out rate is high, plus a poor salary in relation to the level of education. So I'm leaning towards the other ideas, and my current interest is to work in a mental health or hospital setting. Any ideas on how to go about shadowing current professionals? Or how to find a volunteer position?

I have a Bachelor of music and a master of music degree, both with good grades, but lack LOTS of science pre-requisites. I can receive Tuition Assistance that will pay for courses towards a one-time certification. Does anyone know of a certificate that will satisfy degree requirements for some of these programs?? (For example... what is a certified Medical Assistant??). I will also receive the GI Bill, which will/should cover most tuition for the grad program.

Anyone who can offer some guidance, I appreciate your wisdom very much!!

Jen

[Owlie]

PMing you, at least with possible PT. Maybe give someone there a call and tell them about your background and what you want to do?

[Chicken Little]

If I were doing it again with medicine, I would become an ultrasound tech. Period.

I'm an RN.

[oxysback]

How cool! My sister and her husband, and my dad (who is now retired), are/were career Air Force Band members. Wonder if you know them? My sister and her hubby are stationed at Travis currently.

[NbyNW]

I have a friend who is a music therapist. I don't know much about it, but it sounds like something that could combine your background as well as your new interests.

[Catrin]

I have a friend who is a music therapist. I don't know much about it, but it sounds like something that could combine your background as well as your new interests.

+1 on this idea. I've a very talented nephew who is on this path - much to the chagrin of my sister (who thinks he should be on a more lucrative path). Music therapists seem to have a very unique place and are able to do a lot of good!