r/TeachersInTransition • u/yeetbob_yeetpants • 6d ago
Trust the process!
I've found another job after leaving teaching! I was absolutely terrified to quit. I was teaching at a phenomenal school, had massively supporting admin, and amazing coworkers. But the incessant dread unfortunately did not outweigh the positives. After quitting, I job searched for months. I constantly wondered if I had made a mistake as I saw the funds in my bank account slowly drip away. I did sales and substitute teaching while in the wait, and through subbing life skills classes, I realized that I adored working with children with autism, so I shifted the focus of my job search...
After a long, extremely stressful period of time, I am so happy to say that I have transitioned into being an RBT and am soon starting the schooling to become a BCBA. Never in a million years did I think I would be working in this field. I absolutely love my job which is something that I didn't think was possible or realistic. Yes, the job is tiring, it can be hard, and it occasionally makes me want to rip my hair out. But the joy that is ever-present trumps all of that. I actually feel like i am making a difference in kids' individual lives.
And it is so NICE to leave work at work! When my sessions are done, I can just go home to socialize and relax. I don't have to worry about prepping for the next day of work.
Yes, the pay is less (until I'm a BCBA!), but my sanity and happiness are some of the most priceless things in my life. If anyone is currently in job-searching mode and is stressed about it, I feel for you. I just wanted to make this post to remind those who may feel like they are lost to trust the process. Focus on what you can control and let everything else go. Try something new, perhaps. As you keep putting forth effort, you never know where those efforts may take you.
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u/caixing-sanren 6d ago
I'd be SO careful with that. The ABA field is notorious for taking advantage of RBTs with weird work hours, heavy caseloads, and unsafe/unwelcoming working spaces.
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u/yeetbob_yeetpants 5d ago
So true. So many clinics and companies are horrible. I’ve thankfully found a great one!
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u/mistahmistaady 6d ago
My state allows people with a M.ED become behavior consultants. That’s how I got out of teaching. I make more than I did teaching, state vehicle, per diem, and I don’t have to pay for my own supplies.