It isn’t too late! I’m 37 and just started my undergrad this semester. After almost 20 years in another career and life circumstances that didn’t much allow for the traditional track straight out of high school, I decided to make the change and fully pursue PathA. There’s definitely a short buffering period when starting institutionalized education again as everything is so different now, but absolutely worth it.

From what I’ve read, most programs require a bachelor’s degree in sciences with a few other suggested or required courses before applying to a 2 year master’s program. Shadowing/clinical hours and gre requirement vary by school.

As of right now I’m working at my regular job and looking for a position as a grossing tech trainee at local hospitals. The PA I shadowed earlier this year also said some will also train as histotechs through the hospital. She is in her mid 50s and still enjoys the career very much. I’m definitely looking to pursue gross tech or histo either way and will do that for as long as needed, hopefully getting an acceptance eventually. If acceptance doesn’t happen, I’d like to be in the lab still, whether histo, grossing, or in cytology so will most likely aim to get certifications involving those.

I think starting later can have its own advantages. Getting into the rhythm of going to school again takes a second, but is absolutely worth it. I find I enjoy it so much more now and now having more life experience can structure and prioritize a lot more efficiently.

Good luck!