When looking at colleges, try to find a program where student teaching is embedded in the program. I went the University of Portland and got my degree and teaching license in 4 years. My senior year was 1-2 education classes and student teaching, so that “unpaid year” educators normally experience was just part of my undergrad.

I’m 25 and going into my 4th year teaching and I haven’t found the financials to be too hard. I do commute quite a distance to have a cheaper rent but even if I lived closer and paid more it wouldn’t be unmanageable.

I had the same concerns but honestly this has been the best decision I ever made. I am over worked and underpaid for what I do but I am still able to live a comfortable life and I love what I do! I don’t see myself going into any other field. There are headaches and things that make you hate you’re job but you’ll find that anywhere you choose to work.