Woman Leaves Teaching Job for Surprising Alternative Career
Maggie Perkins made a bold decision to leave her teaching job and transition to a new career at Costco in 2022. Perkins has gained a following on TikTok where she shares insights into her journey and life transformation. Her experience sheds light on making choices that align with personal fulfillment in one’s career path.
After dedicating eight years to teaching, Maggie Perkins faced deteriorating working conditions that prompted her departure from the education sector. The realisation that the situation was not improving and the lack of urgency to address these issues led her to make the pivotal decision at the age of 29, while earning $47,000 annually.
Perkins and her fellow teacher friends often joked about leaving their roles to work at places like Starbucks or Costco. What started as a humorous notion became a reality when a new Costco branch opened conveniently in Athens, Ga., where Perkins was pursuing a PhD at the University of Georgia. The opportunity presented itself at the right time, and Perkins took the plunge into the retail realm.
Initially viewing the Costco job as a temporary solution while she contemplated a career in academia, Perkins found herself drawn to the diverse roles and potential within the company. Her journey led her to a corporate training position and content development at Costco’s headquarters in Issaquah, Wash. She now plays a crucial role in training and guiding warehouse staff members.
Reflecting on her transition, Perkins highlights the similarities between her current role and teaching, emphasising the satisfaction she derives from supporting and developing employees. The work atmosphere at Costco resonates with her values, providing a stark contrast to the challenges faced in the teaching profession.
The flexible schedule at Costco offers a newfound sense of work-life balance for Perkins, unlike the demanding nature of the teaching profession that often encroached on personal time and resources. While she contemplates occasional teaching opportunities with her background, her current focus lies in empowering employees and fostering positive interactions with members at Costco.
Sharing her experiences on platforms like TikTok, Perkins challenges conventional perceptions of career choices and advocates for prioritising personal well-being and happiness over societal expectations. Her story serves as inspiration for those considering a career shift or pursuing alternative paths to fulfilment and professional growth.
In a landscape where burnout and disillusionment are prevalent in certain industries, Perkins’ story resonates with individuals seeking validation and courage to make proactive changes in their professional lives. Her narrative underscores the importance of self-care, resilience, and the pursuit of happiness in career decisions.