Have you ever thought about starting over in your career, maybe in your 50s or beyond? It sounds like a plot from a feel-good movie, right? Well, buckle up for a real-life adventure where three incredible individuals show that age is just a number when it comes to internships and chasing dreams.
From Classroom to the Golf Course: Karl’s Journey
Let’s start with Karl Yergey, a 57-year-old former teacher from Maryland. After two decades of shaping young minds, Karl decided it was time for a change – a big one. Packing his bags and storing his treasures, he set off on a quest to Alabama with a dream to dive into golf administration. But first, he needed to start from scratch: as an intern.
Karl’s story is like a summer blockbuster where the seasoned protagonist embarks on an unexpected journey, proving it’s never too late to follow your passions. With a love for golf that began during his graduate studies, Karl spent his summers volunteering at prestigious golf events. Finally, he decided to swap chalkboards for golf courses and applied for the P.J. Boatwright Internship Program.
At the Alabama Golf Association, Karl became the senior member of his team, blending his wisdom with the youthful energy around him. He shared advice, learned about social media, and even embraced his self-deprecating humor to bond with his colleagues.
Barbara’s Quest for New Beginnings
Next up, meet Barbara Morrow, 58, a retired brigadier general from Reno, Nevada. After 34 years in the Air National Guard, retirement felt incomplete without the camaraderie of a team. Barbara, a sports enthusiast inducted into her alma mater’s basketball hall of fame, discovered a new love: golf.
Her journey began with her mother’s old golf clubs and a few lessons from her husband. Seeking a community, she joined a women’s golf club but craved more. When the opportunity for a Boatwright internship at the Northern Nevada Golf Association came up, Barbara leaped at the chance, diving into the world of tournament administration with the ease of a seasoned pro.
Greg’s Golfing Encore
Lastly, let’s talk about Greg Wyatt, 68, whose story could inspire a documentary on career reinventions. A retired Kansas Department of Transportation employee and competitive golfer, Greg found a new purpose through his internship at Central Links Golf. Known to the golfing community, Greg expanded his horizons, learning new technology and preparing for a full-time role in tournament operations post-internship.
Returnships: The New Frontier
These tales highlight the growing trend of “returnships,” specially designed internships for older adults looking to jump back into the workforce or pivot their careers. Unlike typical internships that target fresh-faced college grads, returnships offer a unique opportunity for seasoned professionals to bring their wealth of experience to new fields.
The Recipe for a Successful Second Act
These stories are more than just career changes; they’re about resilience, lifelong learning, and the courage to embrace new beginnings. Whether it’s Karl learning the ropes of golf administration, Barbara finding her place in a new community, or Greg mastering the latest technology, each of these individuals shows that starting over after 50 can be an exciting and fulfilling adventure.
So, if you’re ever thinking, “Am I too old for an internship?” remember Karl, Barbara, and Greg. Their stories prove that age is no barrier to new experiences, learning, and, most importantly, having fun along the way. Who knows, maybe your next career adventure is just an application away!
