Pros:
* Fulfillment: If your passion lies in art and you feel unfulfilled by your engineering career, pursuing an art degree could significantly improve your overall happiness and sense of purpose.
* Career Change: An art degree can open doors to a completely new career path if you're unhappy with engineering. This could be anything from fine art to graphic design to UX/UI design.
* Skill Development: You'll gain valuable artistic skills and knowledge that can complement your engineering background, potentially leading to unique career opportunities (e.g., product design, industrial design).
* Personal Growth: Learning a new discipline challenges you intellectually and creatively, leading to personal growth and development.
Cons:
* Time Commitment: Going back to school requires significant time and effort, often involving years of study and potentially financial strain.
* Financial Cost: Tuition, fees, and living expenses can be substantial. Consider the return on investment – will the potential salary increase in your new field justify the expense?
* Opportunity Cost: While in school, you're not earning money in your engineering career. This lost income needs to be factored into the decision.
* Career Uncertainty: The art world can be competitive and unpredictable. There's no guarantee of a stable, high-paying job after graduation.
* Potential for Regret: While pursuing your passions is important, it's possible you might regret leaving a potentially stable engineering career if you struggle to find success in the art field.
Before making a decision, consider:
* Your financial situation: Can you afford the tuition and living expenses? Do you have savings or access to loans?
* Your career goals: What specific career path are you aiming for with an art degree? Research job market trends and potential salaries.
* Your artistic skills and experience: Do you have a strong portfolio to showcase your abilities?
* Your support system: Do you have the support of family and friends to help you navigate this transition?
* Potential for portfolio building: Can you start building your art portfolio *before* committing to a full degree? This could help you assess your readiness and passion.
It might be helpful to explore art-related activities part-time before committing to a full degree. This could include taking evening classes, joining an art group, or working on personal projects. This allows you to test the waters and assess your commitment and potential before making a significant investment in time and money.
Ultimately, the decision rests with you. Weigh the pros and cons carefully and make the choice that aligns best with your long-term happiness and goals. Talking to art professionals and career counselors could also provide valuable insights.