Exploring Career Paths: Why I Chose a Different Path from My Parents

No, I didn't want to follow the same occupational path as my parents, especially when it came to becoming a nurse like my mother. It was always clear to me that I wanted to be a nurse, but that did not mean I would follow the specific career my mother chose.

My journey to becoming a nurse was far from an easy one. My parents, who witnessed the harsh realities of the Great Depression and World War II, struggled to access the financial and educational advantages that could have helped them and their children. My father had to drop out of high school in his freshman year, and unfortunately, his environment at home was far from ideal due to his father's alcoholism and violence. Despite the challenges, my father worked tirelessly, transforming from supporting his family to eventually becoming an engineer, paper mill manager, architect, building contractor, and business owner. Although he was extremely hard on himself, the hope was that he could provide his children with a better future.

My mother, on the other hand, worked as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) at a state psychiatric center. My decision to become a nurse was influenced by her work, but I knew that I would not follow the same path. My aversion to dealing with blood, vomit, and the responsibility of lifting patients, especially washing their bodily functions, made it a challenging choice for me. Additionally, the physical abuse she experienced from patients during her time at the center only solidified my decision. The injuries sustained from such abuse still limit her ability to drive a standard car painlessly, something that significantly alters her life. My father's work at the psychiatric center, while not ideal, didn't have the same negative impact, and I would consider it if given the choice.

Nowadays, my parents work on a per diem basis at a company that provides transportation for people receiving Medicaid to their appointments across the county. Sometimes, they also undertake longer journeys to neighboring states, which requires extensive paperwork and special approvals. Although their current jobs have some appealing aspects, I find that my role as a high school teacher offers me more stability and benefits. In my position at a middle/high school, I enjoy the extended summer vacation from September 5 until my return in September, which aligns with the academic calendar. This flexibility is something that cannot be understated when it comes to balancing work and personal life.

In conclusion, while my parents' experiences and choices have undoubtedly influenced my thinking, I have chosen a different path, one that aligns better with my skills, preferences, and life goals. The lessons I've learned from their past experiences have significantly informed my decision, but ultimately, the desire for personal fulfillment and a balanced lifestyle has led me to the career I now pursue.