And I need an unbiased opinion. I don't know who else to ask. This will probably be long, if you get through it, I'll be so grateful.
As (I think) everyone knows I go to court reporting school. I am starting my 5th year this year. I am aware that this type of education is a "go at your own pace" type of education, but on average people graduate in about 3 to 4 years. I am to a point, where it has become more and more difficult for me to pass the speeds and I am getting more and more frustrated with it. I just want to be done.
I currently work part time in a law office, and they need me to be full time. They have started looking into hiring someone else to fill in the time that I can't be there because of class. My boss is constantly asking me when I'm going to be done with school and what my plans are. Its sort of annoying, but if I were in his situation, I'd be annoying too. He's trying to let me keep working, but he needs more help.
As I'm sure you're aware, I am getting to the point of "should I drop out or not?"
I've made a pros and cons list, and I feel stuck. I need advice. So if you don't mind reading my list and giving me your 2 cents, I'd appreciate it so very much.
(I told you this was long)
Pros of Court Reporting:
- court reporters are in demand, there's always a job
-different job options. Freelance, CART, Official, closed captioning
- they make a good income
-my 5+ years wouldn't be a complete waste of time
Cons of Court Reporting:
- I'm frustrated, constantly stressed about school
- School is expensive
-My steno machine is my mortal enemy
Pros of quitting school and working in the office:
-I know I have a job. Its known they want me to stay
-No school stress
-more money (but considerably less than court reporters)
-I work with wonderful people
Cons of quitting school
- my parents have put in a lot of money for my schooling. They paid for all of my education until I was married.
-Would I feel bad about not finishing?
-What happens to the office when the lawyer wants to retire? He's 55 now.
-I wouldn't move up in the office. There is an office manager who isn't much older than me, and she's been there 17 years. She isn't leaving.
I want to note, that I would probably only be working about 3 to 4 years. When Nick and I start having a family, I'll be staying at home. I would go back to work when kids go to school. (That's the plan anyway...but Nick's job is pretty secure, he works for a steady corporation)
The 2 things that are really getting to me is how much my parents have spent, and all the time I've spent. I hate to think I've wasted it, but if I continue, does that mean I'm wasting more time?
