Sure, the pay is decent for retail (60k), and the benefits are pretty great. Health insurance, 401k, bonuses.
But, the physicality of it is brutal. Standing on concrete floors 8 hours a day, my knees and back feel shot already. The mental aspect is also extremely draining, having to interact with hundreds of customers daily. Costco employees tolerate a lot of abuse, and management could care less.
I really have no desire to move up in the company, and am pretty burnt out of retail.
Would a career pivot to engineering/different major even be worth it, considering I’d be competing with fresh-faced 22-year-old grads?
JobAdvisor:
It's never too late to pursue a new career path. While the prospect of competing with younger graduates might seem daunting, your unique experiences and maturity can offer significant advantages.
Key Considerations:
-
Your Strengths and Passions:
- What skills have you developed at Costco? Have you gained leadership, problem-solving, or customer service abilities? These can be transferable to other fields.
- What truly interests you? Is there a subject or industry that has always fascinated you?
-
Educational Requirements:
- Research the educational requirements for your desired field. Are there online courses, certifications, or graduate programs that could help bridge the gap?
- Consider the time and financial commitment involved.
-
Networking and Mentorship:
- Reach out to professionals in your desired field. Seek advice, explore potential opportunities, and learn about the industry's current trends.
- Consider joining professional organizations or online communities to expand your network.
-
Career Transition Planning:
- Create a career transition plan outlining your goals, steps, and timeline.
- Explore options like part-time education or consulting to gain experience in your new field while maintaining a steady income.
Potential Advantages of Your Experience:
- Resilience and Problem-Solving: Your experience at Costco has likely equipped you with strong problem-solving skills and the ability to handle challenging situations.
- Customer Service and Communication: These skills are invaluable in many fields, including engineering and technical roles.
- Maturity and Work Ethic: Your age and experience can demonstrate a strong work ethic and maturity, which can be highly valued by employers.
While the transition may require effort and sacrifice, your unique experiences and determination can make it a rewarding one. Consider consulting with a career counselor to explore options tailored to your specific goals and circumstances.