@Carla Wright Thank you sis. I’m glad this message blessed you.

I’m 37 and work as a Senior Employee Relations Manager in Human Resources. I help address workplace concerns, investigate employee complaints, and guide managers and employees through conflict, performance issues, and concerns about fair treatment. I double majored in Management with an HR concentration and Marketing. I got my start working a night-shift HR job at a chicken plant! It wasn’t the most desirable opportunity, but I’m glad I took it because that experience paid off. I later transitioned into higher education at a university as a career counselor and eventually found my way back to HR. My master’s is in Higher Education Leadership, but HR certifications and joining professional associations and groups have been most beneficial for the work I do now. My advice is to explore what interests you and look at the skills you already have that could transfer. Before committing to another degree, find out what the field actually requires—you may be able to make the transition through experience, certifications, or training. Be open to opportunities that may not look ideal but can give you valuable experience. I’m even considering pursuing a law degree! I had a coffee chat with an attorney I worked closely with to get some advice. If you have opportunities like that, take advantage of them and talk with people doing the work you aspire to do. Being in your 30s doesn’t mean you’re late, and changing careers doesn’t mean you’re starting from scratch!