Retiring From the Stage and Looking for a Second Career? You Have Lots of Options.

I want to help dancers when I retire from performing. Can you tell me what jobs might work?

—Julian, Washington, DC

Dancers often excel at a variety of careers because of their amazing work ethic. Many go on to become physical therapists, doctors, social workers, Pilates instructors, acupuncturists or massage therapists. Obviously, each vocation has different academic requirements, with some taking longer than others. For me, it took eight years of school followed by two years of a supervised internship and a job in a hospital before I took a licensing exam in psychology. Time flies when you’re passionate about your work, and I was able to continue performing while I attended school full-time. I found joy in staying in the arts while wearing a different hat. Retiring from the stage doesn’t mean you’ve left your home.