I've decided I want to go back to school. I came to this conclusion over a few long conversations E and I had about our future. See, neither of us wants to live in this city much longer but we've chosen careers that are pretty limiting geographically. So we talk and I think, Ok- what would I do if we left NYC? Finding a full time costuming job in the New England area is hard. They get snatched up quickly and then dont open up again for thirty years. Not that I wouldn't try- but what if it just didnt happen? I cannot work retail or restaurant jobs between theater gigs as a Mom. Yes, thats another consideration. When will we be able to start a family? In our present circumstances it seems like that is light years away, yet it's something we both desperately want. I know we are still young and we do have time to figure things out but I'm a person who needs a plan. A forecast.
So, I started to think, what is the best, most favorite job I've ever had? Easy. American Girl. Why was that job so much better than any job I've had before or since? Easy. The girls. I absolutely thrived off the energy they brought to the theater. I loved being able to inspire them, encourage them, and laugh with them. Any event that meant I got to spend time with the young performers or on the floor with the young customers, I was giddy with excitement. Being around the kids is the thing I've been missing the most over the past two years.
Hence my decision to go back to school to pursue a Masters in Early Childhood Education. I've only begun the process of researching schools and programs here in NYC and weighing my options. As of now, I think I will approach the degree as a part- time student so I am still able to do costuming work.
Only a few months ago I would have never thought that I would be excited to go back to school, but now I truly am. The ideas are swirling in my head about the ways I will be able to use this degree and Im excited about what new doors is will open in our lives.
