So I’ve been sober since 1/10/19 and I was born and raised by parents that also suffered from this disease. I have so much for had experiences with this disease and now that I’ve accepted my higher power. I want to help those that suffer as well. I know sponsorship is a good start but I want to do even more. I want to become a substance abuse counselor or something of the sort.
I’ve recently started looking into going to school and making this happen. I’ll be 28 next month and this kind of course is easily 4 years long if not longer. I feel crazy to even think about doing that kind of commitment. There is something that is telling me to do it anyway. I have no clue how I’m going to pay for it but I trust my higher power will help guide me.
Someone tell me I’m crazy haha or tell me this is a good idea.
I think this is a FANTABULOUS idea!!! As a College Coordinator, I often tell students who say,“but it’s four years.” I say, well you know what happens in four years?
Four years.
It’s going to pass anyway.
28 is still really young. Even after 4ish years of schooling, you’ll still have plenty of working years ahead of you. I say if you can do it… Do it!!
In the treatment centers I was in, there were counselors who were in recovery and some who weren’t. I personally felt like the ones who were in recovery did a better job and got through to people more. They could just relate better and they understood an addict from an experiential stand point.
I feel like the world could use a lot more of those people and you could be one of them!
This is an absolute awesome idea! You go for it! It’s never too late for school and bettering yourself and you will be helping others!! Do it and don’t look back! I’m rooting for you!
I’m 40 and 25 of these years was all about party and more party, last year if you told me that i was finishing my eletronics degree i will laugh pretty hard just to think on, “how the hell am i go to do that with 40years old and with my head all burned up”… im doing it…and i dont care if i finish it with almost 45…just think " i can and i will do it" dont bother with the rest.
Absolutely go for it. I’m 38 and and playing with the idea of getting into the IT field. I probably won’t go the whole way, but I’ve had offers from people I know to build them PC’s for a decent wage, on the side. I’ll probably stick to that. BUT, I used my time wisely over the shut down and now I have something to show for it! Point being, who cares how old we are. I didn’t get sober till I was 35, so when you are done with school you will still be younger than I was when I finally started my life over.
This is brilliant! Go girl! You’re going to be so good at helping people. It doesn’t matter how old you are, if you have a chance to better yourself and in such a worthwhile profession GRAB IT WITH BOTH HANDS! I’m really rooting for you Nina!
Oh my gosh girl do it!!! I’m 34 and going back to school. I just finished a year and a half of prerequisite classes for nursing school. It’s never too late to chase your dream and especially never to late to give back! In all my years or counseling, I was always so much more appreciative to someone who could relate to what I was going through. I support you, 100%!
It’s the best idea. I’m 31 and going to study after years of hard work that I can’t do anymore due to a substance related injury.
Good luck. Study hard. Allow it to encapsulate your life and become the best student ever.
@Ninjakitty Wonderful idea!
I would only suggest that you consider social work, too. We need more social workers that have a background in substance abuse. Plus, you might find more job opportunities in that broader field. There are a lot of people that have 2 year certifications for substance abuse counseling. This would be something to discuss with college advisors. Just remember, they want you to attend their school and spend your money on their institution. Do lots of research on which schools and programs would work best for you. Sometimes, two year courses are better than 4 year degrees. My stepdaughter is in debt up to her ears because she went to a private college instead of public. I’m not trying to dissuade you from going to school, just encourage you to look at all your options before you put any money down.
I say go for it! I was 36 when I decided to finally go to college because of wear and tear on my body from working in the trades (hvac). Best career decision I ever made.
I just want to take a moment and thank everyone that commented on this. All the support yall have given me on this is truly amazing. It has definitely helped with my anxiety about wanting to do this.
28 now, 32 when ready to start this new vocation? This “only” gives you 33 years working in the field, helping people get free from bondage. Think about the number of people you can help in 33 years…and the legacy you will build in that time.
