I can't even get hired as a cashier at a foodstore or Target because i'm 'over-qualified' due to my management experience

Meh, I can't imagine losing out on a position because you're "overqualified." That must really suck. I hope you figure something out soon!

Rutgers University isn't so bad. A lot of campuses to choose from, depending on your field are/interests.

As for being overqualified for a job, perhaps try office work. They really love all the experience and will most likely choose you over someone else. At a university job posting, I got an admin job that paid extremely well for what I was doing, which was not really much and I managed to save up money.

Maybe look into the job market in the places where you're thinking about finishing your schooling? That would kill two birds with one stone...

I can sympathize with your 'overqualification' problem. In order to be gainfully employed I actually had to downplay my qualifications until after I was hired. It sucks, but it pays the bills.

As for leaving your friends behind - you'll just have to make a personal commitment to keep in touch as best as you possibly can.

Good luck.

You have to downplay your qualifications -- you don't need to lie, you just shouldn't mention everything you've done. I have to do it all the time, except when I want a job I'm not qualified for and have to do the opposite.

You have to downplay your qualifications -- you don't need to lie, you just shouldn't mention everything you've done. I have to do it all the time, except when I want a job I'm not qualified for and have to do the opposite.

Take her advice. It's good. Basically, do what you gotta do.

Downplaying your qualifications is a slippery slope. What employers want in a soft job market is to save money...you may or may not be overqualified; they just want to pay you less than you are worth. You get hired, then you find yourself doing a higher level job than what you are getting paid for. That has long term consequences; years later you are a manger being paid less than you should be. Voice of experience here.

Be careful. Do what it takes to get the job, but be ready to jump when economic conditions improve. You are young enough to pull it off.

Good luck!