Hi Willow
I've finally finished my 2nd degree, my Masters, after what feels like forever! I feel like I've been studying ever since I finished school, and when I did leave school the idea of doing a degree that took four years seem liked too long.
I left my first course and took a couple of years out (didn't like what I'd chosen). I went back and studied externally through UNE and completed my BA majoring in English lit. Externally was a great option as it meant I could still work full-time (had a partner for most of it but no child) and it ended up taking me four years as I changed my major. It was great to see so many older ppl doing the subjects - some had retired and were doing it for interest, some were approaching middle-age and looking for a career change and some had families and this was more flexible. It really gave me the motivation to keep going and I never once thought I was starting/changing careers too late because of it!
I went to Sydney Uni to do my postgrad Masters as their course suited my career path. It was well scheduled and I could do subjects after hours and on summer breaks. I had my baby when I was half way through and took 18 mths off before finishing the last few subjects. I really enjoyed having the time to do something with my brain and meeting new ppl after my DD came along. I was working (for myself) at the same time, but it added an extra dimension. Sometimes I completely lacked the motivation to keep going, but after getting so far it would have bugged me no end to NOT finish!
The thing is, there are options that make juggling study/work/family possible, as long as you don't overload. Throw away the idea that you can't take 10 years to finish something, you'll be too old, etc. I didn't know about taking summer subjects, for eg, when I started and assumed it'd take me twice as long. Occasionally you think timing is good and you can do a couple of subjects at once. It doesn't matter how long it takes you to get there, because in the end, you'll be satisfying that part of you that needs the added stimulation and the change while you're studying.
As for work - talk to your boss. There's a chance that you will still qualify for some form of study leave and assistance even if you don't do law. Plenty of organisations employ someone with a psychology degree in HR, or similar. Otherwise, have a look into all of the different courses that are available and see if there is something that you'd really like to do. Be prepared to start something and find it isn't what you thought it'd be - you can always change and still get credit for what you've done. The journey IS as important as the destination!
If it all seems like it might be a bit much right now, keep it in mind for 12 mths or 2 years and look into it again. Like I said, I was totally inspired when I saw 65 year olds taking subjects at uni, it made me think of all the things I am desperate to do in my life and feel like I don't have to cram them all in at once.




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), but I do want it one day IYKWIM.
I know students who are able to say "well, I have to do this now, I'll miss out on a bit of my kids, and it's just part of the deal". Which works for them and that's their thing. I just can't justify it that way. I get one shot with DS, and I won't be a parent/student who resolutely stays behind the shut door of my study whilst DS bangs on the door for my attention (I studied with someone who did this with her two year old and it broke my heart hearing it!). 
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