I lost my job as a machinist. I'm 35, with a degree in sociology. Should I go back to school and major in what
Asked by Lance G
I lost my job as a machinist at Caterpillar after 13 years. I'm 35 and with a bachelor's degree in sociology. Not much demand for that degree. What should I retrain to do that is good paying and always in demand? So I don't have to face this again.

Best Answer:
You could always go get your masters if you're thinking about going back to school. Don't waste time and money getting a degree in another major. A masters in sociology (or any degree) could land you a teaching job at a university. A job that's stable for the most part and always in demand. Try the government, too, or a magazine. I have a friend who works at a newspaper and carries a sociology degree. If you really hate sociology, you can always get a job as a salespeople; they are always in demand, and you can move up the ladder. Chances are you won't get laid off in that sort of job. It pays well, too. You can even open up your own business eventually with the experience, etc. Oh I am not sure about this one, but could you possibly go for psychology? I always think of the two along the same lines and I know that they recommend those going for psychology are recommended to major in biology as a undergrad to get experience with different aspects of research, coming up with a hypothesis, etc. Sociology is quite similar in my opinion. Doesn't hurt to apply. Psychiatrists and Psychologists are always high in demand in these stressful times.

You could: -- get an associates/two-year degree in something that would couple well with your sociology degree (such as nursing) -- get another undergrad degree in something that would couple well with your sociology degree (that's just about anything), OR, would take you in an entirely new direction -- get a Master's degree in something that would couple well with your sociology degree OR, would take you in an entirely new direction -- use this time to learn a foreign language (Spanish is an excellent choice) that will make you more marketable -- look for another machinist job You might want to go to a temp agency for now and get temp work for income (pays better than unemployment), and start volunteering at various organizations in order to explore sociology-related career options. You won't get a job with just a degree, but you WILL get a job with experience and networking, in addition to a degree, and volunteering is a great way to get started. I suggest you look for organizations related to child welfare, elder welfare, and the judicial system. http://www.volunteermatch.org http://www.idealist.org http://www.change.org Layoffs happen to most everyone -- don't be discouraged! Use this time to rebuild and retrain -- it WILL work out for you.
Answered by Jayne says READ MORE BOOKS

If teaching and health care are what is in demand right now, can't you use sociology for organization consultation, "motivating", counseling, social work, teaching, emotional therapy or mediation? What about adding crime, adolescent development or aging to your knowledge?
Answered by proserpinafc