Anonymous wrote:Actually OP, it sounds like you're pretty strong and resilient. The right employer will see that and tap into it.

Agree with this. Your path in life may have been untraditional but could be a real selling point to the right employer. Most people really respect and admire people who've had the strength to overcome difficulty.

My mom started working at 50 - worked until she was 70 - she has a small retirement.

If you are getting a degree in IT - look at call center work. It is a great stepping stone.

I think I can! (My kids hate when I say that.)

Actually OP, it sounds like you're pretty strong and resilient. The right employer will see that and tap into it.

Thanks Everyone for the AWESOME advice!!!

You guys are the best.

OP, just keep on networking as much as possible. That will help you find work.

OP, sorry you're feeling so down. You've made great strides academically and are to be commended. Most people wouldn't have the wherewithal to go back and complete.

First off, yes all of your previous experience with being a nanny counts. As would any volunteering you choose to do.

I work in a field that focuses on higher education for nontraditional students. I don't know how far you are into your business program at the 4-year, but may I ask why a business/IT degree? It's a very general field. I don't mean to discourage, but sometimes it helps to focus on a degree that matches a high-need field. What is your AA in?

You may want to check out the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning website.

Of course there's hope. As I tell my 4-year-old, "Nothing is impossible; if something seems impossible, you just haven't found the solution yet."

Keep plugging away at the degree, and see if you can find scholarships or other aid that might make it easier to pay for it. Keep volunteering, and work on networking so that maybe that volunteer job can turn into a paid position. Also, given the Info Systems degree, if you have an aptitude for computers, I read yesterday that there is a real need for female coders, and that some companies are training potential female coders to diversify their work forces.

And hell, I've had a solid career for 20+ years and I'm scared at the idea of not being able to afford retirement. Lots of folks are. Good luck.

Many people who have had 40 year solid careers will never retire. Either because they can't afford it or they don't want to. So stop worrying about "a good retirement" and start worrying about providing for yourself today. You have to crawl before you can walk.

Sometimes you have to create your own opportunities when none exist.

No, its not too late to get a degree.

The Crime Museum has street team positions open that might fit your schedule. My son, who didn't have much experience, was hired. That Museum saved his life. He moved on to do sales for Comcast.

1- You sound like you're INCREDIBLY hard on yourself. Everyone has made poor choices at some poinnt in life. You HAVE to forgive yourself otherwise you won't move forward.

2- Positive attitude is the key. It's not an exaggeration to say that people will notice your negative attitude and treat you accordingly. Excercise is a great confidence booster- even if you only take a five minute walk- get outside and get moving.

3. It's GREAT that you've gone back to school! Think of how far you've come and be proud of yourself. I don't think any degree is ever wasted. Just make sure that it's really what you want to do. Does your school have career services? Make an appointment to discuss your short and long term goals and options.

There is always hope for everyone - especially people who WANT to change.

Volunteer work can ABSOLUTELY be put on a resume. Visit idealist.org. They have tons of volunteer opportunities listed. Volunteer in a field about which you feel passionate. How about an organization that helps children (boys and girls club comes to mind- i have a contact there if you're interested)? If you are a reliable and proactive volunteer your supervisor will be a great reference.

Make a list to put on your fridge. List all of the positive changes you've made in your life in the last six years and then list all of the positive changes you want to make in the next six years. Look at it every morning and every night. When you start to beat yourself up look at how far you've come. And when you start to give up- look at how far you want to go.

Hugs!!

I am a forty~four yr old woman.
I made some bad and irresponsible choices in my past and understand this.

I had three children out of wedlock, lived off of welfare + food stamps for many years.
I also went back to school, first for my H.S. diploma then my Associate Degree. I currently attend a state university in pursuit of a Bachelor's Degree in Business Admin/Information Systems, etc.

Currently I work part~time as a nanny while attending school full~time.
My own children are all grown up and I live alone.

Having been out of the workforce for 20+yrs and now trying to re~enter is a huge challenge.
No one wants to take a chance w/me due to my age and lack stable job history.
I am even wondering if at forty~four I am kidding myself for trying to earn my B.S. degree.

I work as a volunteer for a non~profit and appear on the local news at times.

My resume is pathetic and I am wondering if it is too late for me.
I love working w/children, but the money cannot sustain me for life.
I have no medical insurance and no retirement $avings, 401 {k}, pension, etc.

I honestly need a good job to ensure a good retirement in 20+yrs.
I want to be a full~time tax paying citizen and be a part of the workforce.

But currently, I would be grateful even if McDonald's hired me to clean it's restrooms.

A.) Is it too late for me academically? Is pursuing a degree worthy at this stage of my life. Middle age?

B.) Where can I start? Can volunteer work be put on a resume?

Any and all advice encouraged...thanks guys!