Guidance for the Eager Learner (Regardless of Age)
In the wake of the pandemic, a middle-aged man found himself in a new country and in a new situation. Aged 30-something, he was no stranger to the world of chemistry, having previously lectured elsewhere. However, he found himself as a student in a department, standing out among younger students due to his age and smart-casual attire.
This individual, who prefers to remain unnamed, embarked on a journey of self-improvement and career reinvention. The world of chemistry had changed since he graduated, and he realised that to apply for research jobs, he needed to refine and certify his second-language skills.
With initial doubts, he enrolled in an open chemistry course, aiming to familiarise himself with thinking about chemistry in his second language alongside native speakers, even though his name might have been the odd one out. He registered with the careers service on the first day of the course and took several communication skills courses in his second language, which he found valuable.
As he progressed, coursework presented further challenges for the individual, as he was now more likely to be supporting a family and have a long commute, reducing available study time. Yet, he persevered, determined to make a career change.
Conversations about using generative AI for comprehension and creative writing tasks are commonplace, but this individual still views using someone else's work as cheating. He believes in the traditional methods of learning and hard work.
The sudden effects that politics, health, or relationships can have are unpredictable. However, this individual advises aiming for something, but also preparing for anything, as one may be surprised by what they find. He suggests using the careers service, taking open units for additional skills, and finding the project or job that one wants to do.
Despite initial doubts, the individual passed his courses and was hired by a company after finishing, returning to a career as a chemistry researcher. He reminds us that the working life could require enrolling on a different course to get a new position or make a career change. The world transforms us in return as we change it, sometimes like work-hardening steel and sometimes like pigeons on a statue.
This person's story is a testament to the power of lifelong learning and the resilience of the human spirit. It serves as an inspiration for those who may find themselves in similar situations, demonstrating that with determination and hard work, one can overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
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