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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

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Original poster

To quit my job and go back to uni in my thirties?

36 replies

Lottie2267 · 07/06/2023 08:01

Im in my thirties and doing well in my job but I hate it and don’t enjoy the field I work in. DH and I have tried for a baby, multiple losses later we have decided that we won’t be trying any more. Therefore, I feel like now is the time for me to go after my dreams instead? I always thought I would grow up and have kids and I never really thought about my career. I would love to do a degree in dietetics but this would be a 4 year course as I would need to a foundation year first. I think financially we could just about manager although it would be a struggle. The uni is also an hours drive away, maybe we could move slightly closer if this is something I do decide to do. Am I being ridiculous or do you think I should go for it? Be brutally honest. Thank you xx

OP posts:

Letitrow · 07/06/2023 10:17

Yes go for it OP, I'd do it soon though as there's often speculation that the funding of NHS courses in Wales might be ending (which is ridiculous in a recruitment crisis but there we go). You have many years of work left.

QuintanaRoo · 07/06/2023 10:19

I did this in my late 20s and now teach my subject at university as a senior lecturer. Yes money was tight for three years but the long term gain for an increased salary was definitely worth the three years of being skint.

ISeeMisledPeople · 07/06/2023 10:29

'I don’t see where the OP mentioned having a cat?'

Maybe when op said she doesn't enjoy the field she works in, MasterBeth assumed she was working in the field picking up cat shit? 😉

Emmamoo89 · 07/06/2023 10:35

Go for it 😊

Ulookgood · 07/06/2023 10:52

No, it is the poster who is asking this question suggested to go on holidays, get a pet.

MasterBeth · 07/06/2023 10:55

Blancmangemouse · 07/06/2023 10:07

Please see my response to PP.

I don’t see where the OP mentioned having a cat?

I have told the OP to go for it if it’s what she really wants and it isn’t too late.

I am also suggesting to the OP that work isn't the only way to find fulfilment, and forgive me for wondering whether a life working for the NHS and struggling financially (as the OP says they will if she takes this route) may not bring her unbridled joy.

She asked for honesty, and I am saying YES go for it, but also suggesting that she consider all other options too and asks herself some searching questions about what will bring her the fulfillment. There are many positives to a childfree life, besides working more / differently.

It’s very easy to just come on here and say “do it”, I am giving the OP a thoughtful and considered response.

Show quote history

Fine. We all have different priorities. The OP didn't mention cats, but you mentioned pets.

For me, an animal is no substitute for a fulfilling education and career.

Comtesse · 07/06/2023 10:58

Better to do it in your 30s than in your 40s!

gabsdot45 · 07/06/2023 11:20

My dad went to university when he was 50 to do his degree. He loved it and it gave him a new lease of life.
Go for it. You have a long working life and you might as well be doing something you enjoy

Original poster

Lottie2267 · 07/06/2023 20:56

Just wanted to say thank you so much to everyone who has responded, very much appreciated.
I feel very inspired and think I will go for it - you only live once and I feel like this is something I need to do. Thank you everyone!!!

OP posts:

DiscoBeat · 07/06/2023 20:59

Can I just issue a silent plea for the word 'university'? The poor thing has been so chopped off in the last 10 to 20 years.

SaraFil · 23/07/2025 16:33

I was looking in this thread to ask the same question! Difference with my circumstances is that I am a single mother to a 16 year old and 4 year old. I currently work in cyber security which I don’t like very much. I’m really here because it’s what I was encouraged to do. But I have always wanted to work in the literary world! I have also published my first children’s book last year and the second one is almost on the way. I’m due to start my degree in October with the OU but I don’t want to do it part time which will take me 6 years! If I could, I would quit work, do it full time so I can get a head start with my dream career! I’m just concerned over the fact that I am the sole person bringing in income. My work is so stressful, I want all my energy in giving my all for uni! What do you guys think? Is there options that can help?

I always tell my 16 year old to follow her dreams but she asked me the other day why I don’t follow mine? Left me gobsmacked lol

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