A Social Work Career Later in Life

by Phyllis Babrove, MSW, LCSW

     My career as a social worker came later in life. At the age of 40, after raising a family, I decided to go to college. I completed my Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work degrees by the time I was 47. Social work was not something that I had planned on studying. I enjoyed sociology classes more than anything, but I also wanted to become a therapist. Someone suggested that I would be able to have the best of both worlds with a degree in social work.

     My jobs included working in protective services, conducting assessments for dependency court, and being a counselor at a community mental health agency. I spent the majority of my career with the public school system as a social worker.

     As a protective services counselor, I learned about the court system, dependency issues, and how to help families stop the cycle of abuse. The same was true when I completed assessments for dependency court. Recommendations were made to the court as to what would be in the best interest of the child. I provided crisis counseling at a community mental health agency. The goal was to stabilize a family after a child had been hospitalized and to provide resources for them. 

     I spent the last 16 years of my career as a school social worker. The social worker’s role in the public schools is to work with students and families to ensure that the child attends school regularly, so he or she is successful academically and later in life. To be effective, the social worker becomes part of a team that includes the school and family. At times, mental health agencies,  juvenile justice agencies, and protective services are involved. In many cases of truancy, there are underlying family issues that have to be determined. Other functions of the social worker include crisis counseling, training of school staff, facilitating group counseling, and assisting families with resources.

     Four years ago, I reached my goal to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I was determined to pass the state test and after a lot of hard work, I did.

     I retired in June of last year at the end of what I consider to be a rewarding career. I don’t know how many people I actually helped over the years, and I never will. I like to think that at some point in their lives, they will remember some advice I may have given or a suggestion I made that will help them be successful in whatever they decide to do.

     I decided to write this piece because there are many people who would like to go back to school when they are older, but hesitate because of their age. I would suggest to them that they pursue their dreams and achieve their goals. Being a student later in life was meaningful, and I was fortunate that I found a profession in which life experience is looked at in a positive way. 

Phyllis Babrove, MSW, LCSW, is currently taking online writing courses with the hope of publishing a novel. She enjoys spending time with her family and likes to travel to New England with her husband of 45 years.

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62 and getting my masters degree in SW

It's never too late to go to school, and I'm finding I couldn't have picked a better degree to pursue, where life experiences and wisdom is valued more. I'm also a woodworking contractor and enjoy that work, but since I can't see myself retiring, social work is something I feel I could do forever.

Michael A 299 days ago

I'm sorry

I was 50 when I started an MSW program. I regret it every single day. I am supervised by 25 yr olds who tel me "You're a Rock Star!" when I complete an assessment; I'm overloaded with documents and paperwork and a frightening lack of support and supervision. In my current role (hospice), the janitor gets more respect than the licensed social workers. I wish you the best, but this is NOT an easy field.

Soda City 272 days ago

MSW at 60

Hello, I saw your comment and was wondering if you could provide a little more info. I am contemplating beginning an MSW and am 60. I want to work for Hospice--that's the goal, but after researching extensively it looks like to achieve that position I need the LCSW and experience, which even if I start today, would mean I don't really get a job until I'm 65 and that is presuming I have worked full time supervised hours once I graduate...but it seems like a doo-loop--how do you get a full-time position if you are not experienced. The school is 60,000 which is hard to justify for jobs that may pay half that amount and not until I am 65. I would appreciate any insight. Thank you.

ct 198 days ago

How does one go about affording this process?

I was wondering how to do this. I am 40 and very interested in becoming an LCSW. Back when my mom was alive and I was just starting out, she warned me against this, as I was only 18. My dream of doing this never subsided and although I love my career, I want to go back for an MSW but I don't know how people do the internships/fieldwork. Everyone says you can't work at the same time. How do people afford this?

Carrie Federico more than 1 year ago

Affording tuition

Many colleges and universities offer complete tuition scholarships to senior citizens. I'm about to finish my MSW and paid for nothing other than my books.

Carol Smith 250 days ago

affording tuition

Where do I start to find free tuition and are you in Texas?

julie Johnson 207 days ago

47 and grateful

I'm 47 and have been working in the Healthcare/Medical sales world for the past 20 years and it is time for a change. I am currently looking into the different MSW programs in my area. Like most of you, I can relate to the anxiety of returning to school at this age and taking on the additional debt. I have to say, reading your posts certainly helped ease my mind and has given me some positive reinforcement as I make my decisions moving forward. It's great to know that I am not alone in making a mid-life career change. I truly appreciate all of the comments and feedback you have all left and wish you all the best of luck.

-Joe Peters

Joseph Peters more than 2 years ago

Age no bar

This post boosting my dream ,if person determined to success in life firstly know self his desire ,dream and etc.
Thanks a lot ma'am for outstanding article.Good night maam

HRISHIKESH PRIYANK more than 3 years ago

50 and loving my life!

Thank you for writing this article. I finished my associates in 2016, age 48, in addictions counseling, went on to school in 2017 in my bachelors of social work program. I will be a graduate of class 2020! I have enjoyed being a student and getting good grades :). I started my addictions counseling career in a men's prison at 47 years old. I have continued to be promoted and just received Employee of the month. It is never too late to do what you want to do. I said to my husband of 20 years, babe we are going to be stuck paying back financial aid, he said "oh well, go for it" and I did. I started just wanting to get my associates and now look at wanting a PhD. You ALL ROCK!

Lynda M. Coraluzzi more than 3 years ago

A Social Work Career Later in LIfe

I finished my undergrad in sociology last summer at the age of 62! I am currently in my second semester for an MSW! I have done exceptionally well in the classroom, but I have also witnessed age discrimination, even inside the safe boundaries of the major itself. The bottom line is that it is never too late to improve your lot in life, even if it's for the benefit of setting an example to others that age is never a consideration in achieving goals. I also found a state university that waives tuition after the age of 60. Congratulations to all of you who have achieved this success in later years.

Linda Porter more than 3 years ago

A SW Career Later In Life

Ms. Porter, thank you so much for sharing this. I am encouraged and motivated. No longer on the fence, I'm going back to school. Now, to find a state school to bless me as you've been blessed.

V Gail Lesesne more than 3 years ago

goodness spring chicken at 60!

I am turning 60 this year having just graduated with a BA Psych and am contemplating doing a MA in Social Work. If I am accepted it will be a challenge for me I know but it is all about personal growth/challenge and the capacity to get something of value worthy of giving back......

nan more than 3 years ago

65 years old BSW Unemployed

I know there is a need for social workers but I can not get hired, going to grad school in Spring ,2021 to help myself get employed

Lisa Lindsey more than 1 year ago

65 years old BSW Uemployed

come to Maine. We have lots of positions open for BSW and MSW. I'm 57, finished my MSW at 55. I'll take my LCSW exam late spring early summer.

Bessie Gove 250 days ago

unemployed

Im in Texas at 65 considering this field. Are you in Texas?

julie Johnson 207 days ago

61 MSW

I will graduate at 63; I plan to open a non-profit once I pass my exam. Turn your phone on when you interview any remarks referring to age hold them responsible. It is against the law. I believe age, race, and gender should be removed from all employment, housing applications.

Dawnmarie Goll 28 days ago

Recording

Please note that state laws vary regarding consent/permission to record a conversation.

SocialWorker.com 26 days ago

Schools offering free tuition

Hello, I would like to know which schools you are referring to.

Kim Rehman more than 1 year ago

State University that waives tuition for students over 60

Dear Linda, thank you for your description of your journey. For the last 35 years, I'm enjoyed a career in teaching and administration, 13 years in public schools and 23 years in higher education. I have a doctorate degree. I want to be a therapist and earn LSCW certification but at my age I'm not sure....
Can you tell me the name of the state university that waives tuition? I wish you all the best!

Brennetta Simpson more than 1 year ago

A Social Work Career Later in Life

I completed my MSW and passed my CSW in my early 40s. I had the opportunity to complete my education and I took advantage of it. Because life happens, we can't always achieve our goals when we want to or when the world thinks we should. Unfortunately, I have experienced a lot of ageism in the work place, and in graduate school. However, I know that I am not ready for retirement any time soon. Social work is a career that you can work in as long as you are able and capable. As long as you are fulfilling your calling and doing work that you are passionate about, age is not a determining factor. Doing what you love is what matters most.

Tiffany Thompson, MSW, CSW more than 3 years ago

A social Work Career Later in Life

I am in school to work on my Masters in Social work. Most of the somewhat discouraging comments or backhanded "compliments," come from people in the field. They say how much they admire me for going back to school as an, "older adult," because he/she could not do it. I have to remind myself not to be derailed by this type of thinking. It is easy to start to doubt one's ability if you listen to unproductive thoughts.

Brenda Dowling more than 3 years ago

Agism is alive & well in Social Work

I graduated with my first degree at 51 & my BSW at 56 & soon realized that if the person hiring is around 35 then I will not be hired. Also realized that all my volunteer work with schools, church & hospitals means nothing. I’m working with the homeless population & would like to actually do more focused work with individuals but my agency has not promoted anyone over 40 in the past three years. I met a few older social workers, even ones who have years of SW experience end up setting up solo work because they are older. I even had one interviewer say I “wasn’t the usual applicant”. I asked what that person looked like & he said recent grad or still a student. I told him that’s what I was.
My thinking is that child/family welfare should be actively seeking older grads who are finished raising their children because of our knowledge. At work I say that I have been told “I hate you” by 4 teenagers who are very dear to me & so no client can say anything to top that.

Beth more than 3 years ago

Older Social Worker

I received my Master’s in Social Work in 2015 at the age of 59. I had a very long successful 33 year career in the Business World, however, I wanted to work in the field of Social Work as I have always felt passionate to become a Counselor.
Due to family emergencies over the past 3 years, this has not allowed me to go any further than being a full-time paid Caregiver and a part-time Adult Education Teacher. I particularly enjoyed the teaching, however, funding was drastically cut from our program and our hours are now extremely part-time. Now that circumstances have gotten better with family members I would like to pursue an area that I am passionate about. I have worked in Mental Health for several years doing Skill Building and would like to pursue a different area.
Right now I am feeling a bit lost on my next step as I would like to work well into my 70’s. I also know that in order to get my license it would take around 2 years to obtain my 3000 clinical hours. I am no longer sure this is realistic as I do need to save for retirement, as I could receive lessor Social Security benefits, but I want to do that at age 70! I might have lost the boat on the license idea so perhaps just a good job would be more realistic? Any suggestions would be very welcome.
Potential Counselor, 61

Eunice Taylor more than 3 years ago

Thanks for the encouragement.

Older here too! I'm 56 years old and have never felt younger ☺️ I'm so excited to be going back to finish a degree in Social Work. I too am hoping to bring some life experience to the table. I hope to have my degree by 60. Thank you so much for posting your wonderful story. Blessings to you.

Teresa more than 4 years ago

Masters of Social work

I want to go back to school but my age (57) and the financial burden is scaring me to death. Any suggestions. Pam

Pam Rose more than 3 years ago

Financial Aid

Pam, you may want to check with schools of social work you are interested in, and ask about what financial aid is available. There may be scholarships, assistantships, and other aid you could qualify for.

SocialWorker.com more than 3 years ago

Returning to University ad an older student.

Hi Pam,
I am also 57 years old, and I have decided to obtain my MSW, which has been a goal of mine for years. I will begin a 3 year part-time program this Fall.
I am very excited, and yes, a little anxious as well, which is normal part of personal growth.
I understand the genuine concern about the cost, and this has to be carefully considered. However, reaching for and obtaining our goals can be so fulfilling and rewarding, that we can often times find a way to make it work.
Social Workers are in great demand, especially in Mental Health and with Seniors. In Social Work, there is no age limit 😊. Enjoy your journey...
Best of luck and success...
Deborah

Deborah Reyna more than 2 years ago

Considering returning for MSW

Hello everyone,
Thank you for sharing your experience. I find it really encouraging, but also worry about financial burden if I would return to study at 53. I've been putting it on hold due family commitment. Do you know good university that could recomend for a p/t studying ?

maya more than 2 years ago

Part-time

There are many CSWE-accredited MSW programs that offer part-time study. The main thing to keep in mind is to choose a school that is CSWE-accredited. See www.cswe.org.

SocialWorker.com more than 2 years ago

Social work student debt

My advice: Don't do it. I'm not trying to be negative, but I'm $50K in debt and have yet to earn more than $42K as a licensed MSW (not LCSW). My take home pay after paying for health insurance is $2200/mo. Barely a livable wage. I'm supervised - literally - by 25 yr old kids who have no leadership training and are high drama. I wish I'd gone into real estate. I'd be in better financial shape right now.

Soda 272 days ago

Thankyou

For giving me hope, inspiration, determination and direction. I'm gonna go for it

Janice Bell more than 2 years ago

Encouraging for older students

So encouraged by your story and reading these comments, I don't feel finished yet at nearly 60, and would love to use my life experience and a degree I never utilised, to assist others, I wanted to be an Art Therapist, but there was no funding around when I tried so gave up...Wishing you the best of luck in your new careers

Julie more than 4 years ago

Never too old

Thank you for the article! I am 60 and At age 57 completed my Masters in social work and recently passed the state exam. I was a paraprofessional in a public school system for 19 years - I have my school endorsement (ready to expire soon) and currently work in a mental health agency. I was just received word I did not get a school social work position I was recommended for and the district asked me for an interview. Reading your article I'm wondering if you have any advice on how to get hired as a school social worker - that was my intentions. Also not ready to retire any suggestions on tying my life experiences with a new path? I'm glad I went back and received my degree, however, I still feel behind the 8 ball.

Magg more than 4 years ago

LCSW

Can you share how you went about obtaining the 3000 hours of clinical Supervision? I a stuck in a place of just starting that process? I need to save for retirement so I am finding it difficult thinking about how expensive Supervision could be??
Thank you
Older MSW

Eunice Taylor more than 3 years ago

MSW @50

I completed 15 hours of MSW graduate work three years ago. I am now returning. I am so afraid. I wonder if following my completion of my MSW, if i will experience age discrimination. Is it worth the time and money ? I think the field of Social Work can lend itself to a longer work life. Meaning, one can work in this field at a ripe old age. Comments?

Yolanda more than 3 years ago

Never too old to study I say!

Hi Phyllis, Thanks for sharing your experience about study. I have always wanted to study, not ever sure about what to study, but after raising my big family and lately I thought 54 was too old and too late. However I remember a woman at 70 studying and making the most of getting herself a Degree at 70 & now your story. I have always worked as a support person in the Social Work area. I think its time to do it for me and open more opportunities.

Sandra more than 4 years ago

66

Thank you for encouraging others. I was awarded my MSS at age 60, my LCSW at 62. Most of my work has been focused on supporting cancer patients and caregivers, as well as geriatric patients in interdisciplinary settings. Returning to get my Masters and this new career - best decision ever!

Kath more than 4 years ago

60

I stumbled across your page by accident. I am 60 years old and in my second year of the Social Work program at Ryerson University in Toronto, ON, Canada. I had previously taken Sociology courses but felt I needed a program that was more job-focused. I will be 62 when I graduate with my BSW. I am hoping to attend grad school afterwards but am not 100% sure of which area I wish to focus in. I was very touched to read your story and those of the others. Congratulations to all of you!

Katherine Stewart more than 4 years ago

Sharing

Thank you so much for sharing this! It really changed my perspective!

Alicia more than 4 years ago

50

I'm so glad I read this article and the comments! I will be 50 in November and am in my 2nd year of college with aspirations of having a masters in social work by the time I am 55. This gives me hope and encouragement! Perhaps some of us could stay connected with each other for continued encouragement throughout our journey!

Lisa more than 5 years ago

Encouraging

I thought I was too old to start at 48. Glad I discovered this article.

Michele more than 4 years ago

Me too!

I'm 46 and was concerned about going back to school (as a junior) to pursue my BS. I literally googled "pursuing a degree in social work after 50" and found this site! I'm so happy I did and look forward to visiting frequently. I'm planning to start school this summer w goal of eventually getting my masters. So hello all and thank you!!

Shanna more than 4 years ago

To Shanna

So glad you found our site and this article, Shanna! All the best to you as you enter your social work journey.

SocialWorker.com more than 4 years ago

@ 50

Wow! I stumbled across this article & i must say, "everything truly happens for a reason". You all have been such an inspiration to me going through this journey of obtaining my BSW in the year of. 2018. As im reading these replies, i no longer feel im behind time & that i chose the right career path as a social worker. I will also like to become a school social worker. I noticed most positions require a Master's degree along w/a year or 2 experience. Any suggestions of obtaining a job in school system w/my BSW while working towards my MSW?

Genia more than 4 years ago

Never too late

Hi Ms.
Hi Ms. Babrove. I loved your article. I am 67 years old and going into my advanced year in the Social Work Master's program at Wayne State University in Detroit. I am very excited about this because for one thing retirement will never be on my radar and second I see it as a whole new beginning to a brand new chapter in my life. I have been working in healthcare for 30 years, mostly in psychiatric hospitals and I have to admit that I wish I had done this a long time ago but on the other hand, the new start is very invigorating. I don't feel my age at all and I'm told that I don't look anywhere near 67. I guess those are both plusses. Anyway thanks for the great article. I really connected with it. I'll be looking to reading more from you. John Lynch

John more than 5 years ago

Thank You

I'm glad that my article was meaningful to you, John. I wish you the best. It sounds like your next chapter will be a fulfilling one for you and that you will help many people along the way. Phyllis

Phyllis Babrove more than 5 years ago

mature student

I will be 54 but intend to work within social care for many years and i bring with me vast life skills not only through personal experiences but also as a foster carer.

shaz more than 5 years ago

foster carer looking to train as a social worker

Hi Shaz. I'm 37 this year and am debating training as a social worker in the future. I've been a foster carer for 8 years. Did you feel your experience as a carer carried merit in your application to train as a social worker?

Michelle Thomas-Troake more than 4 years ago

To Michele

Michele, I don't know if Shaz will see your question, but I think any such experience would be considered positive.

SocialWorker.com more than 4 years ago

Adult learner

I too am a later blooming student. I went back when my twins were sophomores in high school. Now I am almost 2 years of completing my bachelors while working full time.

Alicia Sefcik more than 5 years ago

Another non-traditional student

I am 45. I will be graduating with my BSW at 47. I also have a learning disability. It's good to see some positive and empowering words about being an older student. Thank you. I really needed to hear this.

Gayle more than 5 years ago

I'm a non-traditional, too!

I had never gone to college. I had my son at 47, and when I turned 50 I decided to give college a try. I just graduated this past May at the age of 55 earning my Masters in Social Work. Living proof that, "it is never too late"

Louise DeCosta-Bacher more than 5 years ago

Did you get a job easily

Hi Louise,
Congratulations on graduating with an MSW. Just curious as to how easy or difficult it was to obtain a social work job? Did you encounter any ageism? Thanks.

liv more than 2 years ago

Even older

I am older student. Sometimes I feel like giving up but this has encouraged me tremendously. Presently I am about to finish my Bachelors degree at the age of 54. I hope to continue to get my Masters.

Karen Marshall more than 5 years ago

A Social Work Career Later in Life

I am 51 and graduating with my MSW. Don't give up! I spent my life raising kids. Now it's my turn! I forget how old I am sometimes.

Kelly more than 4 years ago

Did you get a job in social work?

Hi Kelly,
Good for you. Thank you! :) Did you get a job after graduation? And any hurdles pertaining to age? Thanks.

liv more than 2 years ago

Older Student

I was 45 when I started college for the first time! My husband, who I had planned to grow old with and travel, died over a year before I started to school. My children were almost grown and I needed to look out for my financial welfare. I achieved two Associate Degrees (Office Systems Technology and University Parallel); a Bachelor of Science in Social Work, two Master's degrees (Masters of Education in School Counseling and Masters of Science in Social Work), one Education Specialist Degree (Administration and Leadership) and eventually my Doctorate of Education in Counseling Psychology. I surprised myself with going as far as I did but have no regret that I did. I worked on both Master's degrees at the same time traveling for two hours one way four nights a week. I did my doctorate degree at a university in Florida traveling 12 hours one way every six months. I got a School Counseling position when I was 51 yrs. old and presently after 14 yrs. still working on this job ... I hope to work four more years in this position. I worked part-time at a Mental Health Hospital as a psychotherapist for 10 yrs while still working as a school counselor. My husband and I have a private Christian Counseling Service (Appalachia Christian Counseling) and hope to work at this for many more years to come. It is never too late to achieve your dream if you want to. I do not want to seem as if I am bragging since I give God the credit for giving me the strength and energy to go to school and to work toward the degrees I mentioned above. I feel God has brought me this far and He had this work for me to do! My first husband died with HIV/AIDS that he contracted through HIV/AIDS contaminated blood products for hemophilia. I was exposed to this disease numerous times with unprotected sex since we did not know he was infected with HIV/AIDS until 10 yrs. after he apparently was infected (another story of a cover-up by government and pharmaceutical companies). Somehow God protected me and I did not contract this horrible disease and I feel God had this work for me to do in which I plan to keep going as long as I physically can. I hope to help many people through counseling that are going through difficult times and tragedies in their own lives. God blessed me with a wonderful husband three years after my first husband's death. My present husband is a minister and felt that his ministry was more in the counseling field ... when we got married and he moved to my area he attended a Christian university in the area and acquired his degree in Christian Care and Counseling in his older age (he is a year older than me). He is a licensed professional counselor and presently does seminars at conferences. We pray God will give us many more years together to work with our clients who needs help tremendously. Hope this will encourage others to go for your dream no matter how old you are! Thanks, Dr. Joyce Lawson Noto

Dr. Joyce Lawson Noto more than 5 years ago

Thanks!

I have been a full time teacher for 15 years, but have recently felt drawn to the social work field. Its hard to consider giving up what I have done for so long, and hard to consider the financial investment of going back for a degree. Thanks for your article. Difficulties as there may be, I can't ignore the part of me that wants to grow.

Christina more than 5 years ago

Yes!

I got MSW at 52. Halfway through I had to take time off to care for my elderly dad, until his death, but I I got back the next year and finished. Best decision ever.

Deb Hereld more than 5 years ago

57

thank you for this article. I went back to school at age 51. I received my associates in 2011, bachelor's in 2012. I will be receiving my MSW in August of this year, i will be almost 58! I am a little scared. I know that I can do the work but i hope that a company will open to hiring me for my first social work job. Like you I wasn't planning on being a social worker. I wanted to be a counselor but a speaker came to my school and I realized that I have always been a helper and I want to be able to do just that. Thanks again for the article.

Vanessa more than 5 years ago

Yes yes yes!

I will be 61 in July, and I have a Ph.D.. And I am starting the ASU Online MSW program in August! I am so excited and can't wait to get started! Thank you so much for this validation!

Doe Daughtrey more than 5 years ago

A Social Work Career Later in Life

How great is that! I go to ASU and am just finishing up my MSW.

Kelly more than 4 years ago

ASU and 60

Dear Doe, I am not sure you frequent this site any longer and if you do see this, I hope you are now a LCSW and into a rewarding career having met and excelled at the challenges of obtaining the MSW at 61. I am in a boat somewhat similar to where you were when you made this post, so I would appreciate any insights. I am 60 years old this month, I am an animal advocate attorney and educator, working only pro bono. I have a masters in bioethics. My dream has always been to work in palliative care and end-of-life care, and I would love to have the LCSW credential so that I can work as a grief counselor and in palliative animal care. My degrees never provided me the opportunities and I wish I had chosen the MSW/LCSW 20 years ago when I returned to school for law...even 5 years ago. I am very concerned that if I pursue the MSW, I will not be able to gain the hours needed for the LCSW, which will render the path a waste given my goal of working for Hospice. Any insights would be greatly appreciated--especially as I am considering ASU. Thank you so much. CT

Charis 198 days ago

Even older

I'm 63 and just finished my MSW. Thank you for posting this article.

Melissa Hubbert more than 5 years ago

With Appreciation.

I sincerely appreciate this piece, because in the next couple of months I will be a 48 year old BSSW graduate.
Recently I've been wondering if my age will be a deterrent in me finding a job, however I am still going forward on Faith, in the Fall I will begin my graduate studies. Thanks for sharing your experiences.
With Appreciation

Rhonda Glasgow more than 5 years ago

In Masters Progam with Young uns.

I am so glad I read this story. I am in my second semester of my Masters of Social Work. I have a bachelors in Sociology and completely loved that study but have always wanted to be a social worker.
Lately, I feel so out of place because I am always the oldest in the class. Most are in their 20's or very early thirties. I am 46. I have recently been wondering if I am too old to start this dream of mine. Your story really helped me know I am not alone in this and there are others out there.

Pam more than 5 years ago

Another Older student

I am also an older student in a sea of younger students. I stayed home with my children, and started my undergraduste degree when the youngest started college. We even took a course together! Today I am 53, in a masters in clinical psychology program, and I am thinking that an MSW may be the way I want to go (instead of a PhD or PsyD in psychology). I find it hard, sometimes, to be the one student in the room that is old enough to be everyone else's parent. I have children older than many of the students. It is also hard to be starting a career so much later than my fellow students. I appreciate this article and the related comments--it Is nice to know there are others out there grtting a later start and doing well with it.

Laura V more than 5 years ago

I'm with you!

I am just finishing my BSW, the doing the MSW two year part time advanced standing program at 52 currently! There are challenges, but also so many good things that come with our life experiences! I know I will be able to make a difference in my "short" time I serve. You too!

Dan more than 5 years ago

Keep going

Hi Pam, I'm 52 and graduated with my masters three years ago! I felt the same but embraced the age differences. I still meet for occasional lunches with these young woman. Keep going...you'll be glad you did. Best wishes 😊

Lisa more than 5 years ago

Update on career path

Hi, I am in my mid 50's and thinking of taking a similar career path. I have a masters in business administration. Would you mind sharing how this profession has been for you since you started your job? I am very interested in helping people but what are the difficulties or challenges you've encountered so far and was it easy to land a job after you graduated? Did you have choices and how soon were you working? Thank you !

Lisa more than 4 years ago

Social Worker's Heart

I did somewhat of the same thing. Started college when I was 35, going through a divorce and learning how to be a single mom. It took 11 years from a HS diploma to LMSW, and I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that this was my "correct path". I have worked for Head Start, a small mental health agency doing home visiting and now I am in a FQHC working with all ages. I am nearing retirement age now, and still don't want to quit. Maybe I won't! Have been considering private practice as an option. I think I would be very bored NOT helping people...after all, it is my passion. Bless you for following your Social Worker's Heart and helping to create change in the lives of people!

Adele more than 5 years ago

Thanks for the encouragement!

I am 45 and in my first semester of graduate school, having finished my BA 23 years ago. Sometimes I have to fight off feelings that it's too late. I appreciate your story!

Deb Farnsworth more than 5 years ago

Awesome!

Thanks for sharing your story. I started in Social Work later in life as well and can relate to others. Please continue to inspire others. Best of luck!

David J. Ortiz more than 5 years ago

True professional

I had the pleasure of working with Phyllis at several schools. She has always been a true professional, has helped many many people, and I wish her the best in retirement.

Jeanue more than 5 years ago

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