AARP Eye Center
VENETIA CLARK, 58 | $38,000 a year
"I decided I would live life to the fullest."

Home: Frankfort, Ill.
Previous life: Pharmacist
How she did it: In 2014 I was ready to retire as a pharmacist. I had a couple of friends who were flight attendants, and they suggested I apply. I thought, They’re not going to hire someone as old as me. But one did! I know for a fact that it was my experience in customer service that helped me stand out. If you are bilingual that can really help.

AARP Membership — $12 for your first year when you sign up for Automatic Renewal
Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP The Magazine.
What she learned: The training is very rigorous. You start with eye and hearing exams, then go through firefighting training, first aid, self-defense and more.
What you need to know: Attendants start at about $20,000, but the income can go up to about $80,000. And you can’t beat the benefits.