I just called in to “Radio Times” on NPR and related my experience of unintentionally finding a whole new career. I have spent 10 months of the past 3 years since I retired teaching Anglo-American law in Russia to young Russian lawyers and law students. When I am at home, I teach foreign lawyers who come from many counties to study here. It’s a whole new career – and the very best time of my life! It’s a new way of contributing to young people (the future) from many countries. I’ve also taken many courses in Russian language, culture, and government at West Chester University. I hope to tell other “ElderChicks” about these experiences and welcome communications with others!! I also love to speak and write not only about these experiences, but also about the wonderful Russian people! GO, ELDER CHICKS!! We are powerful!!
A Whole New (Unexpected) Career by Karen Porter
February 13, 2014 by ElderChicks
Hi Karen, I’m so glad you tuned in to us on Radio Times (NPR’s WHYY) this morning. It sounds as though your “encore career” is assuring that this time in your life is as full as the rest has been. For those who weren’t listening, you said you hadn’t sat down and prepared for this stage; it just seemed to grow naturally out of the last phase. But I bet you have spent you entire life open to new opportunities as they came your way.
Everyone meets their Beyond Mid-Life challenges in their own way. Some prefer structure, some grab whatever good comes their way, some wait (sometimes forever) for life to happen to them. Aren’t you fortunate to find this time in your life so satisfying! I bet you found every phase to be “the very best time in my life!”
That is great that you found a new career. Have you ever considered giving a presention at OLLI a lifelong learning Institute at the university of Connecticut in Waterbury, CT. They have lecture series for seniors and you would be an inspiration!