Dear Cassie,
I graduated from college three years ago and currently work as a pharmacist, something my parents wanted me to study but not necessarily something I was interested in. Although my job pays a decent salary and the work environment is good, it isn't something I really enjoy and I was thinking about taking another career path. I want to go back to school and study art, which I really love and feel I have a talent for, but I don't want to go bankrupt, or disappoint my parents after they spent so much money paying for my college tuition. How can I make this change without upsetting them?
Michael, Oakland, CA

Dear Michael,
I'm assuming that you are in your mid-20s, a full fledged adult living in the real world with a mind and life of your own. Follow your heart and do what makes you happy, otherwise, you'll regret it one day and always be asking yourself, what if? Granted your parents paid for your education, but being educated isn't only about finding a job that pays well. You need to have passion for what you do, and most importantly, you need to have fun. That is what drives your enthusiasm, and helps you to excel and achieve your goals. Life is too long, and short, to spend making someone else's dream come true. The most satisfied and successful people are the ones who know what they want and go for it, so pursue your new career with a passion.

I'm sure your parents only want the best for you, and as an adult, you can seek their opinion about major life decisions, but ultimately, you are the one who has the final say. They might get upset, but if you haven't told them your true feelings about your current career situation, tell them now and what your plans are. There will always be conflict in life, and you must learn to deal with it whether it be with your parents or anyone you interact with on a daily basis.

Go back to school part-time and when you're almost done, look for a job in your new field. There are plenty of jobs that require art majors, in the fields of entertainment, advertising, museums, media, publishing, technology, education, freelance, etc. The list is long, so you won't have to worry about starving or going bankrupt.

I hope you have great success, and wish you all the best.

Cassie

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