I Left an 18-Year Career to Become a Teacher — Was It Worth It?
Thinking about becoming a teacher—or wondering if teaching is still worth it? In this conversation, Corey shares why he left an 18-year career, what surprised him most about teaching, and the advice he wishes every new teacher could hear.
7/8/2026
Would you leave a stable career after 18 years to start over?
That's exactly what Corey did. After nearly two decades working in a state psychiatric facility, he made the difficult decision to leave his career and become a teacher. It was a major life change, but one he felt called to make.
One of the most interesting parts of our conversation was hearing how his previous experience helped him in the classroom. Corey explained that working with people in challenging situations taught him how to stay calm under pressure and build relationships. Those skills became incredibly valuable during his first few years of teaching.
🧠 When asked what advice he would give new teachers, Corey didn't talk about lesson plans or curriculum. Instead, he focused on one thing: classroom management.
Without routines, procedures, and clear expectations, even the best lesson can fall apart. Corey shared that as his classroom management improved, teaching became more enjoyable and students became more successful. His confidence grew because he wasn't spending all his energy putting out fires.
💡 Another lesson from our conversation was the importance of patience. Many new teachers expect themselves to have everything figured out right away. Corey believes that's unrealistic. Teaching is a skill that develops over time. Every year brings new lessons, new challenges, and new opportunities to grow.
🎯 The biggest takeaway is that meaningful work often requires taking a risk. Corey left an 18-year career because he believed teaching would allow him to make a difference. The transition wasn't easy, but he has no regrets.
For teachers who are struggling or wondering whether they're making progress, Corey's story offers an important reminder: growth takes time. Keep learning, keep improving, and trust the process.
🎥 Watch the Full Interview:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-GjANaotJqE&list=UULFQOIbqNhb_gseSVU6bE3uUA