Hey everyone,
I’m a 28-year-old from India, and I’ve been trying to complete my dental degree for the past 9 years. Despite all efforts, multiple setbacks, and re-attempts, I’m now standing at a painful crossroad: I might have to drop out. If that happens, it means I’ll be left with a 10-year academic gap and no degree in hand.
To be honest, I’m feeling lost. I’ve invested so much of my life, emotions, and identity into this path, and the idea of starting over at this stage is terrifying. I’m trying to explore what options I have now—especially educationally and career-wise.
I’m still passionate about healthcare but no longer want to be in a clinical/treatment role. I’m currently looking into alternatives like Public Health and Hospital Administration, and wondering if it’s even possible to get into such programs after a long academic gap.
My questions to this community:
• Has anyone here made a massive switch after a long academic struggle?
• Are there colleges (especially in India or via open/distance learning) that accept students with long gap years?
• Is it too late to rebuild a stable and fulfilling career?
• What are some career options I might not be seeing right now?
Any advice, perspective, or personal experience would mean the world to me right now. Thanks in advance.
Comments
Firstly it’s never too late in life. People can rebuild even from complete disasters and go on to flourish.
Secondly how close are you to finishing your current course? As even if you end up not working in that field or doing something different having a hard won qualification is worth much much more than a big gap on your resume.
It’s better to finish your degree even if you don’t intended to go into the field, if you’re close to getting your degree