Look before you leap! – Part 1

Hi – this is my first entry so I hope it goes well.
From looking at some entry titles, it appears that some people are in the same boat as I am, in terms of wanting to find a “better fit” for them job-wise. I had been in Purchasing for several years, and after finally taking time to ask myself “Is this what I want to be doing for the rest of my life?” I decided I wanted to get into a field where I’m helping people. I thought healthcare was the way to go for me – it’s one of the (seemingly) few industries that’s flourishing instead of dying down, and many of my family members are in nursing. After doing some research, I felt I found my niche in ophthalmology, as I’ve always had a keen interest in the inner workings of the eye. I took my first course in ophthalmology to become an ophthalmic assistant – basically, a medical assistant for eye doctors. I had to complete 3 courses total to graduate, but because there are so few schools in this state for training ophthalmic assistants, many practices will hire students. I started sending out my resume, eager to embark on my new career. Within a few days I received calls for interviews, and then an offer. So, after 4 years of working at a half-way decent job, I took the plunge and put in my notice, took a MAJOR paycut (at least 1/2 my salary) and started working in the ophthalmology world.