Hi Marie, I am sorry about all of your challenges however I agree that you are just 38 so you definitely have a whole new career-life ahead of you. I read your email several times and as I am a career coach, not a legal expert, I will address those questions specifically.

I understand and appreciate that some form of art and creativity is your chosen profession. I get that acting or teaching young children is not in the picture for you as well. I feel as if you are putting the proverbial "cart before the horse" in a way by thinking about pursuing additional education first instead of identifying specific job tracks.

I think you should spend some time researching creative jobs first and make a short list of those that appeal to you. It does also make sense to view the on line catalogs at several fine arts schools to see if any of the curriculum resonates with you. Then it would be a good idea to find people who are doing the work you think would be interesting and set up informational phone conversations or in person meetings to interview them about their jobs, what they like, what is challenging about them, etc.

You don't mention which state you live in however every state has funding for education for people who are unemployed so I would contact the Department of Labor where you live and investigate this.

 I would also go back to the schools where you got your AA and BA and see if there is career counseling help for alumni.

I know that there are several career books that have been written for creative people and you can find these on Amazon.

I hope this is helpful and encourage you to write back if you have additional questions.

Take care, Julie

I know that there are several career books that have been written for creative people and you can find these on Amazon.

I hope this is helpful and encourage you to write back if you have additional questions. Take care, Julie

Hi Marie, 

The Social Security Administration (SSA) doesn't restrict you from going back to school while receiving SSDI.  However, it is important to keep in mind that your eligibility for SSDI can be reviewed periodically, and going back to school may indicate to the SSA that you are no longer fully disabled.  Of course, you and your health care team could provide evidence to the contrary. 

If you do decide to return to school, I would suggest contacting the school's financial aid office, as many universities have scholarship programs for individuals with disabilities. 

I would also suggest that you look into the SSA's Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS) program.  More information about this program can be found on page 22 of this publication: http://ssa.gov/redbook/documents/TheRedBook2014.pdf. 

I hope that helps answer your question.  

Best of luck, 

Monica Bryant, Esq.
Cancer Rights Attorney
COO, Triage Cancer

Please note that the above information is designed to provide general information on the topics 
presented. It is provided with the understanding that the expert is not engaged in rendering any legal or professional services in the information provided above. The information provided should not be used as a substitute for professional services