I’d really appreciate some outside perspectives on a big decision I’m weighing up.
I’ve been offered a place on a part-time postgraduate programme. It’s something I’ve had a long-standing personal interest in — not necessarily as a direct career move, but more as a path for personal growth and deeper understanding. That said, I’m not completely ruling out professional possibilities down the line.
The course is quite demanding: weekly evening classes in a city that’s a long commute away, a couple of full-time blocks during the year, and additional weekly in-person commitments. There’s also a significant amount of independent study and personal reflection involved.
I currently work part-time in a senior public sector role. While I could potentially reduce or restructure my hours to make space for this, it would have financial implications. There’s also increasing pressure to be physically present in the office, which adds another layer of complexity. I also live with a chronic health condition that affects my energy levels — so capacity is something I have to be careful with.
On the home front, I have a 6yo child and a very supportive partner, which helps a lot. Losing an evening a week with them feels like a lot.
Has anyone taken on a similarly intense course while working and juggling family life? Was it worth it for the personal development, even if it didn’t lead to a career change? Or did it end up being too much?
Would really welcome any thoughts or experiences — especially from people who’ve done something similar.
Thanks so much in advance