I'm torn. I'm having the hardest time deciding whether or not to start the AuD program. I have 2 paths. Please bear in mind I'm old, 40. I love school, always taking a continuing ed class here and there, so not a problem there, and I'm very "service oriented". I caught the Audiology bug and actually would be quite happy doing it for the rest of my life. I have 2 paths, I don't know which to go, please help.
Path 1) Graduate in 4 years with an AuD, prestigious degree whether or not some think they're just Techs.
Possibly salary about 75k and above.
Low stress since it's one on one.
Will incur about $100k in student loan debt.
Have on hand about 60k in a 401k I could use for home down payment + 30k in pension + 20k saved.
Path2) Or Stay where I'm at. Hate my current job. Extremely stressful and overworked.
Though I have a Professional degree, patrons treat you like crap.
Salary Max at 70k with no potential growth.
60k in 401k + 30k pension+ 20k saved.
Zero debt.
It's like Path 1 I'll be much happier, greater accomplishment personally and academically but Huge risk financially but still has potential for growth. Path 2 brings better financial security, but I will be miserable for the rest of my life.
Am I crazy to want to continue school?
Path 1) Graduate in 4 years with an AuD, prestigious degree whether or not some think they're just Techs.
Possibly salary about 75k and above.
Low stress since it's one on one.
Will incur about $100k in student loan debt.
Have on hand about 60k in a 401k I could use for home down payment + 30k in pension + 20k saved.
Path2) Or Stay where I'm at. Hate my current job. Extremely stressful and overworked.
Though I have a Professional degree, patrons treat you like crap.
Salary Max at 70k with no potential growth.
60k in 401k + 30k pension+ 20k saved.
Zero debt.
It's like Path 1 I'll be much happier, greater accomplishment personally and academically but Huge risk financially but still has potential for growth. Path 2 brings better financial security, but I will be miserable for the rest of my life.
Am I crazy to want to continue school?