What career should I pursue?

November 6, 2005 7:45 AM

Career filter; I am 40 years old with degrees in Economics and Finance...suggestions........ I am ready to begin a career

Here is the catch, I have never had a real job, I did work at an insurance company for six months, but other than that I have been a self employed carpenter doing remodeling. I am very good in finance, I have excellent math, computer skills. I also make and sell paintings and take photos professionally in my spare time. I like working with my hands and I don't know if I can sit in the same place all day, as I never have! I would really appreciate any ideas.

posted by lee to work & money (8 comments total)

Isn't carpentry and remodelling a career of it's own? What are you asking?
posted by cmonkey at 8:49 AM on November 6, 2005

why stop carpentering, especially if you like working with your hands and don't want to sit still? Your knowledge in finance won't be wasted - use it on your business and your private finances.
posted by mirileh at 9:05 AM on November 6, 2005

High School Teacher
Career Advisor
Life Coach
Small Business Consultant
posted by bigmusic at 10:11 AM on November 6, 2005

What kind of degrees? Undergraduate or graduate?

If you're interested in putting your economics and finance knowledge to use, try contacting the school where you got those degrees. Many schools' career services people will help alumni, even if you graduated a long time ago. They can point you to jobs you're interested in and qualified for. This is even more true if you got graduate degrees in those fields.
posted by equipoise at 11:52 AM on November 6, 2005

Yes, I did not explain very well, I am looking to change. My degrees are undergrad from U of IL. Urbana.
posted by lee at 12:00 PM on November 6, 2005

I recommend this book. I have it. I've read it. It's good.

Good luck.
posted by cribcage at 1:24 PM on November 6, 2005

You have the financial chops. You know your way around a computer. You know carpentry. You know remodeling. You have an eye for aesthetic issues.

You are a General Contractor waiting to happen.
posted by ilsa at 1:45 PM on November 6, 2005

Lee, if you're serious about looking at the 9-5 biz world at your tender age, I'd advise talking to some recruitment firms or temp agencies. You might just find that this world is not for you, or at least that you'd do better easing into Officeworld.
posted by rob511 at 7:41 PM on November 6, 2005