College at 45+

[User Named]

Hi everyone. I've been on LoveShack before to complain about my relationships. But now I'm seeking advice about college. I am two semesters away from having a Bachelor's in Theatre--or one semester short of a Bachelor's in English. Financial aid will pay for the next semester, but I don't think it will pay for the last one. I've been in school too long! Anyway, I really want a degree in theater. I write plays that have had some small successes. I'd like to learn more about theatre--its history, playwrights, etc. But I'm close to 50--I'm the oldest student they've ever had in the theatre department at my university. Worse, most of the students are less than half my age and quite arrogant. Granted, I have befriended some of them. But I still feel like a weirdo loser for taking classes that require me to work in groups with kids. Furthermore, I would have to pay for my last semester which I would take at a community college. But, despite all this, I would feel like I fulfilled a 20+-year-old dream if I had a theatre degree. Let me add, the degree would probably be just for my own satisfaction. I doubt anyone would give me a theatre-related job.

 

On the other hand, I can finish my degree in English by May. I won't feel as humiliated taking English classes because they don't typically require any type of interaction like theatre classes do. But they aren't fulfilling either. Plus, I feel like an English degree is a dime a dozen. (Sorry to any English majors out there.)

 

I have two daughters and little income. I feel selfish taking theatre, yet I don't see English as leading to anything other than teaching. I can do that with a theatre degree too.

 

Help! Thank you so much!

[Lovelybird]

Hi, I admire that you pursue theatre degree at age 45+, I would say go for it if you want it !

 

If you feel you can learn many new things from the school, then it is worth it.

 

sorry, I found my previous post was contradicting, my case was very different from yours. totally irrelevant, hope you didn't mind that

 

My point is to encourage you to pursue your goals, I've heard a woman who started medical school at her late 40's, and she got the degree she wanted and fulfilled her dream ! she is an inspiring to me

Edited January 8, 2010 by Lovelybird

[Throne Of Lies]

English is a WAY more versatile degree than Theatre. When you interview for a job as an English major, people automatically assume that you have good writing skills, which are the most important skills you can have for nearly any job. A fifty year old theatre major? That dog doesn't hunt in the job market. Unlike an engineering or math degree, English gets more valuble the older you are. Grist for your craft. If you are interviewing for a creative position, that will come into play.

 

Why the obsession with a Theatre major? I get the following through on your dreams idea, but a Theatre degree isn't like finishing an Ironman- people aren't going to give you any respect for it. Especially not from a community college.

 

If you are into writing plays or screenplays, why can't you do that with an English major? Since your age and life situation is almost definitely going to keep you from breaking out as an actor, wouldn't it make sense to focus on writing? That way you can still be involved in theatre (The screenwriter or playwright is arguably WAY more important than the actors) and can continue to be involved for as long as you like.

 

The English as only valuable for teaching angle is pretty rich. Tons of lawyers and politicians have English degrees, Sally Ride (first American female astronaut) had an English degree, scores of military leaders, obviously numerous famous authors, and virtually all the Founding Fathers had the contemporary equivalent to an intensive English degree. I have an English degree and I've written for a newspaper, been employed as a pilot, and worked in industrial firefighting. It is a hugely versatile tool.

[quankanne]

two things:

 

1. if your heart is behind a theater degree, go for it. My dad had always taken college courses, and at the age of 62, he received his fine arts degree from a pretty well-known Catholic university in our area. He's told people time and again, you are NEVER to old to get your degree if that's what is your heart's desire.

 

2. one of our elementary school principals started out like you, pursuing theater studies and work because she loved it so much. She kind of fell into teaching because reality stepped in in the form of debt, but she discovered the perfect way to use her gifts as an actress to bring English/literature to life for her students. And even though she's part of administration now, I can guarantee you, this woman still has the opportunity to put her drama skills to work!

 

so don't let your dream die – you might have to sacrifice something, but in the end, there's no sweeter feeling knowing that you've accomplished a goal you've set for yourself. Even when that goal isn't what others consider "practical" ...

 

good luck!

[gopher]

two things:

 

1. if your heart is behind a theater degree, go for it. My dad had always taken college courses, and at the age of 62, he received his fine arts degree from a pretty well-known Catholic university in our area. He's told people time and again, you are NEVER to old to get your degree if that's what is your heart's desire.

 

2. one of our elementary school principals started out like you, pursuing theater studies and work because she loved it so much. She kind of fell into teaching because reality stepped in in the form of debt, but she discovered the perfect way to use her gifts as an actress to bring English/literature to life for her students. And even though she's part of administration now, I can guarantee you, this woman still has the opportunity to put her drama skills to work!

 

so don't let your dream die – you might have to sacrifice something, but in the end, there's no sweeter feeling knowing that you've accomplished a goal you've set for yourself. Even when that goal isn't what others consider "practical" ...

 

good luck!

 

Agreed!! I'm 48 and went back to school 2 years ago, and while I'm too busy take a full load, I should have my business administration degree in the next 18 months or so.

 

Good for you and good luck!!!!

[CrestfallenNoMore]

I know of what you speak. Though I got a degree right after high school, I, too, lamented that my English degree might be worthless. The Poli Sci, History, and Psychology majors and I used to get together to lament our seemingly "worthless" futures as many of us had no desire to teach.

 

 

I'm happy to say that I've done pretty darn well for myself. Throne has it right. My BA in English says several things to prospective employers:

1. I know how to write, and write well (trust me, this is a huge, huge factor in the business world if that is your goal).
   
2. I have critical thinking skills.
   
3. I have the fortitude to work towards a goal and stick to it.
   

I was able to parlay my English degree and love of technology into technical writing and, eventually, training development which is what I do now. Not only can I write, but I know software and computers and I've been able to create a nice career for myself. I'm in demand, and can command a very high salary.

 

I admit that your inclinations or desires may not lie where mine have, but an English degree is not a "dime a dozen" and can help you in the business world, even if you elect not to teach. My sister got a MA after getting her BA in English and was unable to find a job - even teaching at a community college.

 

No matter which direction you choose, getting a degree of any kind won't HARM you. I know the MBA types will often make you feel as though your liberal arts inclinations are foolish, but having a degree will only help you and I congratulate you for taking the initiative, no matter which degree to elect to pursue.

Edited January 9, 2010 by CrestfallenNoMore