This is wild. PM me. We literally have the same career path! I got my undergrad in Communication sciences and disorders, worked as an assistant for a while but didnt like it, paid $11/hour. I became an educational assistant at an elementary school off a whim, loved it, and am now teaching Special Education. Much better paying than an Education Assistant. I am working full time while getting my Masters in Special Education. The principal at the school I worked at liked me (M 25yo) and they were willing to hire me as a teacher, sponsor me for an emergency license so that I can go to school and get a salary. If you like being an Educational Assistant, teaching Special Ed is pretty much similar but with more responsibilities like writing IEPs and holding meetings. As it turns out, the increase in responsibility and necessity to talk all day has given me confidence and therapy in a sense. I love teaching. Message me if you got q's