[US] 27M Seeking Career Guidance: Striving for a Fresh Start
Hello, everyone. I’m a 27-year-old male and I find myself in a unique situation: I’ve never had a traditional job aside from a brief stint at a corner store for about three months after high school. Academically, I performed well, graduating summa cum laude with over a 4.0 weighted GPA. However, I faced significant challenges during college and ultimately left in 2021 due to mental health issues and a lack of interest in computer science.
From 2019 to 2022, I operated an online retail business where I had a vendor’s license and filed taxes as a sole proprietor. My focus was on importing profitable products from China and purchasing wholesale items from U.S. vendors to sell primarily on eBay. I managed basic profit and loss tracking for tax purposes and handled sales tax, which was mostly automated.
I’m eager to enter the workforce but continue to grapple with anxiety and depression, often feeling reclusive. I struggle with feelings of shame about being in social situations. While I can’t drive, I’m considering using Uber to reach job locations, despite the cost. I’m thinking about applying for positions like dishwasher or entry-level retail roles near my home.
On a positive note, I believe I can complete a degree in Accounting relatively quickly through Western Governors University (WGU) if I focus full-time on my studies without working, likely within 6-12 months. However, I’m concerned about my employability in Accounting since my last work experience dates back to 2018. I’m unsure whether to include my self-employment on my resume or if it would even be relevant. Would it be feasible for me to secure an accounts receivable/accounts payable position with just my educational background?
I’m stuck between a few options: should I take the dishwashing job while pursuing my degree full-time? Or perhaps work for a period to gain recent experience before quitting to finish school? I really want to establish myself in a field I am passionate about, especially since I have a strong affinity for math and detail-oriented tasks.
I should mention that I was diagnosed with Graves’ disease about a year and a half ago, and although it’s under control with medication, my mental health hasn’t improved significantly.
I’d appreciate any advice or insights from those who may have been in similar situations. Thank you!
One response
It’s great that you’re reaching out for advice, and it sounds like you’re self-aware about your strengths and challenges. Here are some thoughts to consider as you navigate your next steps:
Mental Health First: Take care of your mental health. It’s commendable that you’re considering getting back into the workforce, but make sure you’re in a good place to handle the stress that might come with it. Consider seeking support from a counselor or therapist if you haven’t already. They can provide tools to help manage anxiety and depression, which can be crucial as you transition into work or school.
Accounting Degree: If you feel confident that you can focus on your studies and complete the Accounting degree in 6-12 months, that could open up a lot of doors for you in the future. WGU is flexible, and having a degree can certainly help you stand out in job applications even if you struggle with recent work experience.
Valuing Your Experience: Don’t forget to include your experience running your online retail business on your resume. This shows initiative, entrepreneurial skills, and knowledge of basic Accounting principles, which could be relevant to an accounts receivable/payable position. You’ve managed finances, dealt with suppliers, and can demonstrate problem-solving skills.
Part-Time Options: If you feel ready, consider finding a part-time or flexible job that can help you ease back into the workforce while studying. This could be something low-pressure, like dishwashing, to help build your comfort with being around people again and to ease the transition. You can also look for remote or flexible jobs that might suit your skills or interests without requiring regular commuting.
Networking and Experience: Even while studying, look for opportunities to network. Join local accounting groups, participate in online forums, or engage in workshops. These connections can be invaluable, and you may even be able to find internship opportunities down the line, which could give you both experience and a foot in the door for a future job.
Set Realistic Goals: Start with small steps. You don’t need to have everything figured out all at once. Setting manageable goals can help you build confidence gradually and reduce anxiety about the larger picture.
Job Applications: When you start applying for jobs, focus on applying to entry-level accounting or Bookkeeping positions that may not strictly require prior experience. Emphasize your education, your self-directed business, and your attention to detail in your applications.
Ultimately, listen to yourself and what feels right for your mental health and goals. Whatever path you choose, remember that there are multiple routes to a fulfilling career, and everyone’s journey is unique. Good luck—you’re already taking steps in the right direction by reaching out for advice!