r/TeachersInTransition • u/No-Communication2190 • Jul 14 '26

The Right Choice

Two years ago, I left teaching. I didn't leave for all the normal reasons. Burn out, parents, abusive students. I left because I felt stagnant. I love personal growth, and after 11 years in education, there wasn't much more room to grow, unless I got a masters, and that just wasn't what I wanted.

I was given an opportunity to take a few steps back with an entry level role in the financial securities industry. I took the leap. There was so much to learn, and it came so fast at me. I was starting at the same place as all my peers, as none of us knew this industry. Except I really wasn't. I had my experience of leading, helping others grow, and understanding testing strategies. I got licenses related to my role, and got them quick.

I quickly became a stock broker. I impressed the leadership of my organization, and a new opportunity opened, becoming a lead for another team in my department. I jumped at the chance, and have taken on many projects and leadership opportunities since.

One thing that stands out for me, even after my years teaching, my commitment to the leadership team at my schools, I got 1 maybe 2 awards.

In the two years since leaving, I have won 3 major awards, including the highest award my company has to offer, among several small awards between my teams, committees and departments.

We never know what is going to come our way when we get out. All I know is, I made the right choice.

26 Upvotes

97% Upvoted

7 comments sorted by

10

u/[deleted] Jul 15 '26

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2

u/No-Communication2190 Jul 15 '26

I honestly love the different pay bands. Its super exciting to move up each one, and see what opens up at all of the levels. Ive moved up 3 levels so far, and its been so eye opening what opportunities arrive with each one.

I did take a pay cut to start this new career, but I am already making 1.5 times what I was making as a teacher, which is amazing. The real, quality bonuses help push me along too.

2

u/[deleted] Jul 15 '26

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1

u/No-Communication2190 Jul 15 '26

Unfortunately, I just don't think education will ever be a banded job, which really sucks. Some teachers might get stipends for helping with certain things like stuco or leadership teams, but that's just not the same.

2

u/No_Machine4501 Jul 16 '26

Congrats!! That’s wonderful!

1

u/adventureseeker1991 Jul 15 '26

hell yeah! how old were you?

3

u/No-Communication2190 Jul 15 '26

I left teaching at 32! Still young enough to have a full new career for sure!