I need to decide between a career as a Town Planner or a Teacher/School Psychologist?
Asked by Kate P
Town Planning is a distance uni course, and I think I would enjoy it a lot, but think that the working hours may not fit into my lifestyle. But Teacher(secondary)/School Psychologist is on campus and when I finish it would fit into my lifestyle better, (I have two kids). I do not know what to do, I have been told I would be good in both these professions, but I am struggling. I know I don't want my kids in vacation care 12 weeks a year but I allso want a career I will love and be secure in. Does anybody have some advice for me, It would be greatly appreciated?

Best Answer:
School Psychology is a field with a huge or should I say "an ever growing shortage" that will work wonderfully with the hours you would want to work, although you will still take work home like a teacher would. What you have to ask yourself though is, do you care about children, or teenagers enough to work with them everyday? Do you not mind doing psychological assessments most of your days, going to IEP meetings, writing long IEP plans about three times a week, meeting with parents, teachers and administrators all day and counseling on an as needed basis?? If the your answer is no, you should definitley look more into school psychology. Keep in mind this is just the basics of the job duties of an SP and what you would be hired to do, if you want to go above and beyond to meet the needs of the complex needs and issues amongst children today, you will be developing programs and implementing intervention strategies for crisis situations, violence,etc. so while you are working a school schedule, don't assume your job will be done after school hours. The times that we are now living in are requiring these types of services so the roles are broadening so there is always lots to do. Best wishes on whatever you decide to do.