In this blog post, we’ll explore the real challenges and rewarding surprises that come with changing careers to become a teacher. Switching careers is never easy, and when the new path leads to the classroom, the challenges can be both humbling and transformative. Many new educators enter teaching from entirely different backgrounds—law, business, hospitality, public service—and discover a profession filled with unexpected demands and profound rewards. If you're thinking about making the leap, or have already landed your first teaching job, here are some real-world insights to prepare you for the journey ahead.
From Public Administration to the Classroom
Transitioning into teaching without a traditional education degree can feel like being dropped into the deep end. Many career changers begin their journey through substitute teaching, and for some, that sparks a love for the classroom. What may start as a tentative “trial” can quickly evolve into a full-time role, often without much formal training in pedagogy. This rapid shift is exhilarating—but it can also be overwhelming.
Teaching Isn’t Like the Movies
It's natural to romanticize the profession. Films like Freedom Writers and Dead Poets Society paint a picture of passionate teachers transforming lives through deep discussions and heartfelt breakthroughs. While these moments do happen, the day-to-day reality is more demanding. Teachers juggle curriculum mandates, standardized testing requirements, and a host of administrative tasks that don’t make it onto the big screen.
One of the biggest initial surprises is the existence of state and district standards that dictate what should be taught. These standards are foundational, yet many new teachers aren’t explicitly trained to navigate them. The key is to familiarize yourself with your subject area standards, curriculum maps, and pacing guides—resources typically available through your district or state’s department of education. Tools like ChatGPT can even help you break these down into digestible instructional plans.
Students Struggle More Than You Might Expect
For those who excelled academically, it can be jarring to encounter students who lack basic literacy or numeracy skills. Many students, through no fault of their own, have significant gaps in their learning—whether due to inconsistent schooling, undiagnosed learning disabilities, or systemic barriers. Your job isn’t just to deliver content but to help students access that content.
Patience, empathy, and collaboration with other educators are essential. Ask questions. Seek help. And remember that each student is carrying their own story—sometimes one of hardship, but also of resilience.
Be Honest About What You Don’t Know
Inquisitive students, especially in advanced classes, will often ask questions that catch you off guard. And that’s okay. There’s no shame in admitting you don’t have all the answers. In fact, modeling curiosity and collaborative learning can be one of the most powerful ways to connect with your students. One question—“Do thoughts have mass?”—sparked an unforgettable class discussion that students remembered for years.
Instead of bluffing, turn these moments into opportunities. Say, “Great question. Let’s explore that together.” Google it. Research it. Let students take the lead in the inquiry process. They'll respect your honesty and remember those moments.
Respect Is Earned, Not Assumed
While older generations may have been taught to respect authority without question, today's students want mutual respect. Walking into a classroom and expecting instant compliance simply because you're the adult isn't realistic. Respect is built through consistency, fairness, empathy, and professionalism.
Establish routines. Set clear expectations. Be present. And above all, treat students as whole human beings. Recognize that they might be dealing with far more than academic pressures—family issues, economic challenges, mental health concerns. When you show them that you care, they’ll respond.
You're Going to Have Bad Days
Every teacher has them. Days when nothing goes right. When a lesson flops. When a student says something that gets under your skin. When you cry in your car during lunch. It’s all part of the job—and it doesn’t mean you’re failing.
The key is to not let one bad moment define your experience. Give yourself and your students a fresh start each day. Avoid holding grudges. Learn to let go. Teaching is an emotional job, and those emotions—when managed with care—can become your greatest strength.
The Light Bulb Moments Make It All Worthwhile
Despite the challenges, teaching offers moments of pure magic. That instant when a student finally gets it, when the light bulb switches on, when they connect with you or the content in a meaningful way—those are the moments to treasure. They don’t happen every day, but when they do, they remind you exactly why you chose this path.
If you're changing careers to become a teacher, know this: it's going to be tough, but it's also going to be worth it. Prepare as best you can, stay flexible, and give yourself grace. You're entering a field where the impact you make can last a lifetime—for both your students and yourself.
Thinking about teaching or already in the classroom? My book, Teach: A Survival Guide for New Educators is your go-to guide for real-world strategies, classroom tips, and honest advice to help you survive—and thrive—your first years in education. Grab your copy here. For more support, check out my online course Teach: A Survival Course for New Educators.
📺 Watch now to get the inside scoop on transitioning into teaching. 📺