A NARRATIVE INQUIRY OF CAREER CHANGE: HOW A FORMER EFL TEACHER BECAME A VIRAL SKETCH ARTIST

Abstract

This article presents the results of a study on the experience of one participant, a former teacher of English, who transformed herself into a viral sketch artist. The study was part of a larger research project that explored the factors influencing the career-change decision-making process, which collected data from a sample of 10 alumni in two years. The article reveals that further attention is paid to supporting teachers, especially the less-experienced ones, at their workplace. Some recommendations and strategies for mitigating teacher burnout are also provided. Furthermore, the findings suggest that in addition to providing professional knowledge and developing specific skill sets, tertiary education should nurture a growth mindset, life-long learning habits and skills, and resilience. In this way, a tertiary education can build a strong foundation, capable of launching students into success after graduation.