I am in my 40s. I had a job for 15 years when I decided that I wanted a career change.

I looked around at the people I knew or had met.

I had a 4-year degree, but my degree was not specific enough to use as a tool for gainful employment elsewhere. I knew that I needed more education, either a master's degree or an associate's degree in a trade.

My friend and others, all physical therapists (PTs), impressed me with their skill sets in caring for my daughter with disabilities and teaching me through their work.

We talked about physical therapy, and I researched the time and cost involved for the education. The price tag was too high. I then heard about the physical therapist assistant (PTA) option. I realized that I could get similar professional enjoyment as a PT, but with a smaller price tag on the education. I also felt that I could make the same or more money than I was without the overtime at my current job.

I have a family. My wife and I had been married for 15 years when I started physical therapy school. We have 3 daughters, 1 of who is disabled.

We had a life that we were settled into, struggles and all. Now, I wanted to change things. I needed her support or it wasn't going to work. I had to have a conversation with my wife to see if this was something that we could handle. She said yes.