#jobsearch #communitycollege #careerchange #makingendsmeet
Hey everyone,
I’m reaching out because I’m in a really tough spot right now and could use some advice. At 42, I’ve found myself at rock bottom—broke, with only $5 in my checking account, and facing the reality of living in my car in about a month.
Here’s a quick backstory: I made a lot of poor choices over the years, which has led to my current situation. I was working in the film industry, but when the jobs dried up, I struggled to find anything else. I’ve been holding down a low-paying job as a laborer, which barely covers my basic needs. Honestly, I feel pretty lost.
I’ve been considering going back to community college to get a certificate that could open up better job opportunities for me. But here’s the kicker: I’m not sure what to study. I want something that won’t take too long but will also help me earn more than minimum wage.
💡 So, I’m turning to you all:
- Have you ever found yourself in a similar situation?
- What quick certificate programs have you found to be worthwhile?
- Are there any fields you’d recommend that might pay better and have a solid job outlook?
I’m interested in filming and photography, but it’s tough to make a living in those fields. I guess I’m just looking for some guidance and hope. If you have any tips or personal stories to share, I’d absolutely love to hear them! Thanks in advance for any help you can provide! 🙏
I would have said IT but that ship has sailed. I would say if you don’t mind labor work and would rather make more money. Trade work or medical field.
Become a trucker
Don’t ignore trade schools. Those typically have an actual job waiting at the end.
You can get a phlebotomy certification pretty quickly and then start drawing blood for people. I’m not sure where you are located but people I know that did this out of high school were making $20/hr or so off rip (in Texas). Its not a bad start, X-ray tech is a position with similar appeal.
stay strong and fight for your wellbeing 🙏🏻
Electrical union ..
I would go to trade school ,that’s probably the fastest way to income. Don’t be an auto mechanic, it’s a terrible waste of time and money and …..anyway Don’t even consider it. If you look into trade school, look at things where you can get on the job training, like plumbing or electrical work . And this is a huge thing to consider, think about jobs that robots can replace humans with in the future. Bricklaying has already been done by robots,as well as drywall installation. Electricians and plumbers need fine dexterity and need to be able to climb ladders, etc., things a robot would have a hard time doing. And I feel ya on the living in the car thing, I’m about to have to do it as well, and I have a skilled ,full time job. Good luck!
Try LSD. Might open up some ideas in your mind. (not actual advice)
One of my local community colleges offers a 10-week course in emergency dispatch. Not any easy job by any means, but it pays above average.
Become a casino dealer and rise the ranks quickly as they usually promote from within. They will train you and you don’t have to be good at math.
It’s lifted me out of poverty. I started at 40 and now I’m in the best position I’ve been in life a few years later.
consider radiography, you can typically find a 2 year program at community college. like you, i was always interested in photography and film but didn’t want to make my passion my career. however, taking photos of inside people’s bodies is still pretty cool.
Trades, reach out to local recruiters that staff construction. You can get work and all you have to do is show up and put your best foot forward if you need help you can DM me. I can get you a job
Hang in there! I hope it gets better
Otr truck driving will provide a home and above average salary.
Regarding community college, there are many grants (money that doesn’t need to be paid back).
Visit and meet with an advisor and the career office. I am astonished at what some jobs pay, much more than I will ever make. Health professions, welding, plumbing, auto technicians, etc.
Of course you want a good fit but the career office can really help.
Trades and oilfield. Especially the latter.
Get your air brakes ticket and you can start working service rigs tomorrow. Nobody wants to work those jobs, so companies are always hiring.
You say ”Nothing ever stuck for me”. That’s a massive sign of adhd or aspergers, could you look for diagnosis?