If you have a degree and have only ever worked in low paid/ nmw jobs? if so, how do you feel about it?

[ugger]

Does it bother you? Does it make you feel a bit of a failure? Do you feel unsuccessful? Embarrassed even?

This is me. I feel like this. Only ever managed to get nmw jobs or just a few pence above! What makes it a million times worse is my degree is in a healthcare vocation. I could have earned decent money but couldn't/ didn't! I wish I never went to uni. Should have just messed about at school even. People with hardly any GCSEs are doing miles better than me.

I was talking to dh about this and he thinks im being ridiculous and says im doing just fine and it doesn't matter if you have a low paid job and a degree which I know makes sense. If I knew someone else like this it wouldn't even cross my mind but for me personally it does and I can't seem to let it go and accept it. As im getting older, it making me feel such a strong feeling of loss, I guess, of a life that could have been.

I have a degree in a stem subject and without it I wouldn't be in the job I am now without it (although it wasnt a requirement but I'm certain it was what got me the interview). Fortunately I love my job but the pay is pathetic, just above minimum wage.

My dd is at the point of deciding where she wants to go (a levels and uni or college/apprenticeship). She's incredibly bright, predicted high GCSE grades, but without desired career path, I'm struggling to really push the uni route due to the debt. But I feel like an apprenticeship would be a waste of her intelligence. This thread has certainly opened my eyes.

Duckling84 have you/your DD looked into degree apprenticeships? Many of the companies involved pay their apprentices the same salary as FT employees - i work with degree apprentices and a lot of them are earning more than I am! They'll graduate with 4 years industry experience, a degree qual, and no debt. It's a fantastic option.

I have a history and political science degree which just left me with massive mental health problems really ...