Career Change (Teaching English to Biology)

[changeofcareer]

Hi everyone. I should preface my situation and aspirations with the fact that I realize the following is most likely a pipe dream. That being said, I have been feeling this way for some time and willing to do whatever it takes to change my current situation. Anyway, here it goes...

I am a 29-year-old English teacher living in Massachusetts. I am married and moved here for my wife's job (which is unique). I love living in this area and my personal life is all positive. However, my career has come to a breaking point. I am no longer happy teaching English to middle/high schoolers. I've been teaching for 6+ years and, by standard metrics, I would consider myself a successful teacher. As many of you know, being successful at something does not necessarily have a direct correlation to satisfaction or happiness.

I originally thought I wanted to go into the sciences out of high school, but I lacked the maturity to realize this passion. I have taken a few science courses (bio and chem) in undergrad but received low grades in these classes. I graduated undergrad with a BA in English and grad school with an MA in Education. I am having the same feeling of being interested in the sciences now, but I am completely lost how I could pursue a career in science at this point.

Is it at all possible to pursue an advanced degree in Biology at this point. Where would I even start? How could I obtain the necessary prerequisites to have a chance? Would you recommend taking classes at a local CC to fulfill some of these requirements? I know research experience is also a key component. Is there any way to have an experience in research? As always, time and money are restraints in this equation. Any suggestions? Thank you in advance!

[aberrant]

I would say that you should consider taking biology, chemistry, calculus, and physics courses in community college first. Then maybe you can take a few upper division bio classes that are required for a typical biology major at a 4-year university, and look for research opportunity at the same time.

You can try to look for lab assistant / research assistant position as a start. It should be relatively easy to find one if you are in Greater Boston area, or if you can commute to Boston/Cambridge. Otherwise, you still may have a chance to find the same kind of position at a nearby research university/ies.

I don't think that a science degree is absolutely a must if you can show that you have mastered the scientific knowledge that is expected to have from a bachelor degree holder. Typically, it can be proven by doing well in courses and, especially in situations like yours, an outstanding subject GRE test score.

Edited November 5, 2016 by aberrant