I’m 28 and currently going through a major career crossroads. I originally graduated in accounting, but the job market has been rough for me — I’ve struggled to find stable work, and honestly, I never felt fulfilled in that field.
Over the last few months, I started seriously considering switching careers into special education teaching. I was in special ed myself growing up, so I understand the environment and feel like I can genuinely relate to the students. To test the waters, I took a teacher’s aide position in New York. It’s been mentally draining at times, but also incredibly rewarding. Being in the classroom confirmed for me that I can handle it and that I want to pursue teaching long‑term.
Recently, I got accepted into City Teaching Alliance (CTA) in Baltimore. It’s a 4‑year program where:
\- Year 1: You’re a resident making a $30k stipend (1099)
\- Years 2–4: You’re a full‑time teacher making around $60k in Baltimore City Public Schools
\- You earn a Master’s from American University
\- You get coaching, mentorship, and a guaranteed placement
The downside:
The American University MAT is about $50k before scholarships or AmeriCorps awards. Even with aid, I’d likely still end up with $30k–$40k in loans.
On top of that, I’d have to move from New York to Maryland, find housing, and start over in a new city. Meanwhile, I’ve tried applying to New York–based teacher residency programs, but I haven’t been accepted into any of them.
CTA appeals to me because they don’t rush you into teaching — you get a full residency year before becoming the teacher of record. That structure is something I really value.
So here’s my question for anyone who’s been through a career change or works in education:
Is it worth taking on $40–50k in student loans to switch careers into teaching, even if the job is stable and meaningful?
I know teaching isn’t a high‑paying field, but it is stable, and I’m guaranteed a job for the full 4 years of the program. I’m just trying to figure out if the debt + relocation is a smart long‑term move or if I should stay in New York and try a different certification route.
Any insight from teachers, career changers, or CTA/AU alumni would really help.
Career change at 28: Is it worth taking on $40–50k in student loans to become a special ed teacher?
byu/muslim_ballerr inStudentLoans
Posted by muslim_ballerr
2 Comments
girl, i did career change around same age (was doing marketing stuff before) and while i didn’t go into teaching, the debt part is real concern. $40k sounds like lot but if you’re guaranteed job for 4 years and actually passionate about it, could be worth it.
baltimore is way cheaper than new york for living, so that might help balance out some of the financial stress. plus special ed teachers are really needed everywhere, so job security is pretty solid.
the fact you already tested waters as aide and still want to do it is good sign – many people romanticize teaching until they actually try it. if you’re already handling the mental drain and finding it rewarding, you probably have realistic expectations.
just make sure you run the numbers on loan payments vs your future salary to see if monthly budget will actually work. teacher salary in baltimore should cover basic living + loan payments, but won’t leave much extra for fun stuff.
Finding a job you LIKE, is ALWAYS a BONUS. The way these kids and parents set up TODAY, I don’t know if teaching is it. Because the parent, kids, special ed kids, they ALL want to fight too much. I’m NOT a teacher, but I wouldn’t one to be one in today’s society. The lack of respect is mind-blowing.