A Crossroads

I am once again unemployed. Well, temporarily, at least... It's just uncertain as to when I might get called back to my previous call center job. Trust me; I want to go back to working there. I loved the people and the environment... it was really nice. However, I'm tired of being unemployed, even seasonally. I want a career. I want something MORE out of life.

I'm pretty sure that means it's time for me to go back to college... again.

I did this once in 2008, right before I was hired by the naturopathic acupuncturist. I took two graduate level courses at Portland State University and passed them both. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to take anymore because of my work schedule. By the time I could go back (after I was fired), we couldn't afford for me to go back nor could I go back because I didn't have all the letters of reference necessary to "complete" my application to their graduate teaching program, since I needed one letter from a teacher, preferably from Oregon or Washington... and I didn't have it, nor was I about to have one anytime soon.

With Lewis and Clark College, I have two options.
Option One: I can go back and get my Masters of Education with Elementary Teaching (and try for my Middle School Math License). With this, I can hopefully get a foot in the door at a local school when I do my in-school hours... and with any luck, I might even get a job. Not only that, but I know of more middle school math teacher openings than I do of elementary school teacher openings... so that's a thought. I'd still have to rely on finding a school that has a job opening for me, but with a Master's degree, it shouldn't be as difficult as before.

Option Two: I can go back and get my Masters of Counseling Psychology and receive my Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy License. Believe it or not, I applied to CSULB's program for this back in 2004, but didn't get in (very small program), so I stuck with getting my teaching credential. However, I have the opportunity to do it now and I can have my own practice if I want... no more relying on resumes, interviews, and how I'm dressed. I can have my own practice (or I have the option to join an already existing practice) and have a true career.

I know I sound a little crazy right now, but I think I'm ready. Now, I just have two different information sessions to attend... and applications to fill out... and scholarships and grants to apply for (which I've never done before, and frankly, it's a bit intimidating). This is going to be the start of new things and I can't wait! 

Now... which one shall I choose...?