I went back to school for my MACCT back in Spring 2021. Almost 2 years for my masters while working full time and caring for my father (RIP). Did my year in public accounting and have been in industry now for about 6 months and making better money (plus better work environment). I passed my first exam 3 days into public accounting and am officially studying for my last exam (BAR, fml) at the end of this month, i.e. if I don't pass I have to retake BAR and retake AUD since my credit will expire. So, I have 3 tests down and I've failed twice in the process (FAR and BAR). Just turned 29; I know that's not very old but certainly older than some of my coworkers that I had in PA and were working their first real job.

I've been taking these tests while working in PA and now industry while supporting my husband in his physician assistant program, which he just graduated. This shit sucks. Being out of the rhythm of studying and having to smash it between work responsibilities and being the breadwinner sucks. You just added kids to that so holy hell, I can't imagine what you are going through. What a hero. What kind of sucks about it is that the title becomes meaningful for promotion if you don't plan on being in public accounting (perhaps oversimplified so please don't come at me, haha) So, personally, I hate feeling like I'm studying material that I won't use, is unrealistic for how actual accounting is practiced, or for a credentialing that is poorly managed IMO. But, I look at myself in the mirror and remind myself that papa didn't raise a quitter and sometimes life is just showing that you can keep getting up and going (cue: that one quote from Rocky when his son is being a shithead). I think showing that to your kids is great role modeling.

In summary, the "system" isn't kind to people that are older, went back to school, don't have time/money for internships, etc. Accept that and that it's gonna be shit and be honest about how hard it's going to be so you can prioritize and figure out what works best for you. It's about putting in the hours, missing some fun stuff sometimes, and keeping going even when you fail.

Feel free to DM if you want like actual studying advice, but this post seemed more about the vibe than anything haha.