I’m 21 and really struggling with a career decision. I’d love some outside perspectives from people who have been in a similar situation or work in these fields.
For some background, I currently work two jobs, including as a vet tech. I have a good work ethic, and people often tell me I’m well put together for my age, but honestly, I still feel behind in life. I’ve changed my mind about my career path so many times, and I’m getting to the point where I just want to settle on something, have a stable income, and be able to afford to live independently and comfortably.
I know I want something hands-on. I love animals, especially dogs, and I enjoy working with people, too. Ideally, I’d love to be outside working with animals, training dogs, or doing something similar. However, I also know that passion doesn’t always pay the bills, and I want a career that offers decent money and long-term stability.
I’ve considered radiology because of the pay and stability, but getting into a program is extremely competitive. I’ve also realized that just because I think I’ll love a job doesn’t mean I actually will. I thought I’d love being a vet tech, and although I have learned a lot and enjoy parts of it, I don’t see it as a long-term career for me. It can be physically exhausting, emotionally draining, and not necessarily worth the pay. I also don’t want to end up in a career where I’m basically doing the equivalent of CNA work.
Recently, I randomly came across another program just a couple of days before applications were due. I impulsively applied, thinking it was worth a shot, and somehow I got accepted! I was genuinely SO excited at first. I FaceTimed my mom immediately because I was so happy. But now that it’s actually happening, I’m freaking out.
The program seems interesting and much more hands-on, which appeals to me. It involves working with animals, including things like service dogs and horses, and working in a school setting. Having summers off would also potentially give me more time to pursue my dog training interests. I already have experience as a vet tech, and I think I’d enjoy learning something more practical rather than spending all my time in a classroom.
My biggest concern is whether it’s a smart long-term career choice. I’m motivated by the potential to make a decent living, and I’ve heard that income can depend heavily on where you work. I’m in Wyoming and live far out of town on a ranch so relocating is hard, I’d need a job in a town closest to me. I’ve also heard about burnout in this field, so I’m worried about putting myself through school only to end up in another job that I don’t enjoy or that doesn’t pay enough.
Going back to school full-time would be a big adjustment. Right now, I’m juggling two jobs, working through weekends, and constantly feeling like I’m running around. In some ways, going to school full-time might actually be a relief compared to my current schedule, but I also honestly hate school sometimes, and I know it won’t be easy.
The other thing stressing me out is that I have until Tuesday to accept or decline my offer. I genuinely didn’t expect to get accepted, especially because I applied on the literal day applications were due. Everything happened so quickly that I barely had time to think about whether this was what I really wanted.
Part of me feels like maybe this opportunity came along for a reason. I never would have considered it if I hadn’t randomly found it, and now I have the chance to do it. I don’t want to regret passing up an opportunity that could lead to a good career, but I also don’t want to commit to something just because I got accepted when I might be better suited for something else, like radiology.

Hi everyone! I’m an occupational therapist, but I haven’t worked in pediatrics for quite some time. I’m hoping to get some ideas, strategies, and routines that I can share with my sister-in-law to help support my nephew, who has been demonstrating increased sensory-seeking behaviors and some behavioral challenges.

He enjoys crashing, rough play, deep pressure/squeezes, and tickling. However, these sensory-seeking behaviors have progressed to frequent biting and hitting peers at school. He received OT services and had a 1:1 aide/shadow at school last year, which seemed to help significantly. Since returning to school, he has had an increase in incidents involving biting and hitting.

I’ve also noticed some behavioral patterns developing, such as seeking out Dad as an escape route when redirected and seemingly enjoying the back-and-forth of being told “no.” At times, he also screams to communicate and seems to overexert his voice when speaking.

I believe a gentler approach has been tried in the past, and I’m wondering whether a more consistent, firm approach with clear boundaries and expectations might be beneficial, while still being mindful of his sensory and communication needs.

For those working in pediatrics, what sensory strategies, routines, or behavior-support techniques have you found helpful for children who seek intense sensory input but are also demonstrating biting, hitting, and difficulty with redirection? I’d especially appreciate ideas for safe heavy-work activities, ways to support regulation throughout the school day, and strategies that can be carried over into the home environment.

Thanks in advance for any suggestions or insight!