Top Challenges Career Changers Face When Becoming Teachers (and How to Overcome Them)


| by Alex Skov

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Switching careers to become a teacher is an exciting journey with many milestones along the way, but it can also be challenging. Whether you’re transitioning from a corporate job, a creative field, or another industry, stepping into the classroom involves learning new skills, navigating certification processes, and adapting to a brand-new work environment. But with patience, a growth mindset, and the right support, you can transition into education smoothly and confidently. Continue reading below to explore some of the most common obstacles career changers face when becoming teachers and how to overcome them.

Navigating Teacher Certification Requirements 

Understanding and meeting teacher certification requirements is something that career changers have to do early in their journey to become educators. Unlike many other professions, teaching requires specific credentials that vary by state or country. These requirements often include completing an accredited educator preparation program (EPP), passing licensure exams, and completing student teaching hours. 

How to Overcome This: Research the specific teacher certification requirements in the state or country where you plan to teach using tools like Moreland’s Find My State directory. Other online resources like teacher certification guides can provide clear and actionable information about the steps career changers need to take to become teachers while also answering common questions about working in education. 

Adjusting to a New Work Environment 

A classroom environment is very different from most other workplaces. Managing students, creating a positive classroom culture, and addressing student behavior issues are just a few of the things career changers need to learn how to do when they become teachers. 

How to Overcome This: Make the most of professional development opportunities, ask questions to other teachers, and seek mentorship from experienced educators. Schools and districts may offer classroom management workshops or new teacher onboarding programs to support educators coming from other fields. You can also observe experienced teachers to learn effective strategies and techniques. 

Balancing Coursework and Existing Commitments 

For career changers completing teacher certification preparation programs, balancing coursework with existing personal and professional responsibilities can feel challenging. Managing study schedules, assignments, and test prep to find the right work-life-study balance is doable with the right organization, however. 

How to Overcome This: Use your time management skills to create a structured study plan. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and importance, and set realistic, achievable goals. Online programs like TEACH-NOW that allow you more freedom and flexibility to learn at your own pace can be especially helpful for career changers with busy schedules. 

Mastering New Technology and Educational Tools 

Teaching in today’s classrooms can often involve using technology like interactive whiteboards, learning management systems, and digital collaboration tools that aren’t used in other industries. Career changers who are unfamiliar with these technologies may experience a learning curve at the beginning of their teaching journey. 

How to Overcome This: Take advantage of training sessions offered by your preparation program or school district. There are also plenty of free online resources — like videos on YouTube — and professional development webinars that can help you learn how to use education tools practically and effectively. Remember: Many of the skills you’ve developed in your previous career like adaptability and problem-solving will also help you become comfortable with new technologies. 

Financial Adjustments 

There are costs associated with making a transition into teaching from another career. These include tuition costs that vary depending on the preparation program you choose and application fees that are unique to getting certified in each state. 

How to Overcome This: Creating a detailed budget and exploring part-time or accelerated certification options can help you manage costs effectively. Look for programs with affordable tuition that matches your budget, as well as scholarships, grants, and tuition reimbursement programs. Moreland’s Joy of Teaching Scholarship is designed specifically to give eligible career changers a $500 tuition discount, for example. 

Adopting a New Professional Identity 

If you are shifting from a well-established role in another industry to being a new teacher, you might feel slightly uncomfortable at the beginning of this transition. Don’t worry: Many career changers experience this, and there are proven ways to get over this feeling. 

How to Overcome This: Embrace a growth mindset and focus on the value your previous experience brings to the classroom. Your unique background can provide students with a real-world perspective and enrich their learning. You may also find it useful to get feedback from peers and mentors who can help you develop as a teacher. 

Building Relationships with Students and Colleagues 

Teachers form deep bonds and build meaningful connections with students and colleagues through working with them to reach achievable outcomes every day. These relationships are important to any teacher’s success. Career changers may find this challenging if their previous jobs were less people oriented. 

How to Overcome This: Dedicate time to getting to know your students and colleagues. Active listening, empathy, and consistent communication go a long way in forming strong relationships. Participating in school events and collaborative projects can also help you find your place in the school community. 

More Resources for Career Changers from Moreland 

Becoming an educator as a career changer is both challenging and rewarding. Be sure to celebrate small wins as you progress in your teaching journey, and recognize that understanding any obstacles you might encounter and proactively addressing them will make your transition into the classroom smoother. Always remember that you bring unique skills and experiences that can enrich your teaching practice and positively impact your students. 

If you’re considering a career change into teaching, Moreland is here to support your journey. Download the no-cost Career Changer’s Guide to Becoming a Teacher to explore transferable skills that make career changers great educators, certification options, and practical advice for launching a successful teaching career. You can also explore Moreland’s certification programs, like 9-month TEACH-NOW and the 12-month Master’s in Education with teaching credential, which are both 100% online so you can make your dream of becoming a teacher a reality. 

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