Embarking on a career change is a significant decision, filled with both excitement and uncertainty. Now, factor in pregnancy, and you might wonder if it’s even feasible to pursue a career switcher program. If you’re asking “Can You Go Through A Career Switcher Program While Pregnant?”, you’re not alone. Many women contemplate their professional paths during pregnancy, and the good news is, it’s absolutely possible to navigate a career transition during this transformative time. Let’s explore how, drawing inspiration from real experiences and actionable steps.
Like many, my own career transition wasn’t a sudden leap but a gradual evolution. The seeds were sown unexpectedly when I faced job loss amidst a school system restructuring. Adding to the life changes, I discovered I was pregnant. Initially, the job loss was unsettling, but it opened up a period of reflection and strategic planning. Staying home with my second child provided a unique window to consider my professional development. Digital media was gaining prominence, and I decided to enhance my skills by taking courses in Photoshop and Illustrator, aiming to become proficient in digital art and boost my resume for when I returned to teaching. An introductory graphic design class during this time truly sparked my interest. It was a gateway to a graphic design certificate program at the Massachusetts College of Art and Design. While I loved the class, juggling two young children and two careers with my husband meant putting this exciting possibility on hold.
Returning to teaching after two years, I eventually progressed to a combined art teacher and department chairperson position. The initial rejuvenation in my new role was real, and for several years, I enjoyed the diversity and responsibilities. However, as time went on, administrative decisions that seemed to undervalue the arts, coupled with economic struggles and increased school events, began to drain my enthusiasm. The expanding role and responsibilities became overwhelming. It was during this period of growing dissatisfaction that I revisited the idea of the graphic design certificate program. My children were older, my husband’s career was thriving, and the desire for change resurfaced. I enrolled in another class, and my passion for graphic design reignited, making a career shift seem increasingly viable. The traditional notion of staying in one career for life felt outdated, and the prospect of a new professional chapter became compelling. I officially enrolled in the certificate program at MassArt, designed for working adults with prior degrees. While most of my classmates were younger, in their late 20s or early 30s, my age difference was never a barrier. The program, approximately thirty credits, was designed to be completed in about three years.
For me, completing the program took closer to five years, largely because I was still teaching full-time. Balancing work, family, and studies demanded rigorous time management and organization. There were countless long nights, challenging critiques, and substantial homework. Before fully committing, I wisely sought advice from a professor and conducted informational interviews with graphic designers to gain realistic insights into the field. This proved invaluable. I even started working part-time in graphic design before finishing the program, which was incredibly beneficial for gaining practical experience. If you are serious about career change, especially while considering the unique aspects of pregnancy and motherhood, here are some crucial steps to consider, adapted and emphasized for your situation:
Identify Transferable Skills: Pregnancy and motherhood itself hone invaluable skills – time management, organization, patience, and problem-solving. As a teacher transitioning to graphic design, I leveraged my creative background. Think about your existing skills and how they can be applied to a new field. For example, if you’re coming from a field like nursing or project management, your organizational and empathetic skills are highly transferable. Consider careers that align with your inherent strengths and interests.
Determine the Skills You Need and Explore Flexible Learning Options: Just as I pursued a certificate program, you might need further education or specialized training. Pregnancy and early motherhood might necessitate flexible learning options. Look for programs that offer online courses, part-time schedules, or self-paced learning. Many universities and community colleges offer certificate programs in various fields, from social media marketing to project management. The key is to find a program that accommodates your life stage.
Consider All Angles, Especially Timing and Support Systems: Changing careers is a significant life decision, and pregnancy adds another layer of complexity. Financially, consider potential impacts on your income, savings, and any retraining costs. What are the typical starting salaries in your target field? Critically, think about timing. While it might seem daunting to start a program while pregnant, remember that many programs offer flexibility. Consider when the program starts and ends in relation to your due date and postpartum period. Crucially, assess your support system. Having a supportive partner, family, or network is vital, especially when juggling pregnancy, studies, and potentially work. Open communication with your partner about sharing responsibilities is essential.
Get Ready for Change – and Embrace Adaptability: Change requires proactive steps. Start exploring job opportunities in your desired field, even while studying. Having a polished resume and professional references ready is crucial. Craft your career change narrative, highlighting your transferable skills and enthusiasm for your new path. When interviewing, be prepared to explain your career transition positively and confidently. Don’t shy away from mentioning your commitment to professional growth during this phase of life; it showcases ambition and resilience.
It Takes Time – Be Patient and Kind to Yourself: Career changes are rarely overnight successes, and adding pregnancy and motherhood to the mix requires extra patience. My certificate program took five years alongside teaching. Building a new career while pregnant or with a newborn will likely require a phased approach. Celebrate small victories, acknowledge the challenges, and practice self-compassion. Remember, this is a significant accomplishment, and taking it one step at a time is perfectly acceptable.
Making a career change, especially while pregnant, is a testament to your ambition and adaptability. It’s a journey that demands planning, resilience, and self-belief. But with careful consideration, strategic planning, and a supportive environment, successfully navigating a career switcher program during pregnancy is absolutely within reach. Embrace the challenge, focus on your goals, and know that this period of change can lead to a fulfilling and exciting new chapter in your professional life.
If you’re considering or have made a career change, especially in conjunction with motherhood, share your story! Your experiences can inspire and empower others on a similar path.
