Teacher Assistant, Occupational Therapist Assitant, other teaching like possibilities? (career, associate degree, demand)

[fierce_flawless]

I'm trying to come up with suggestions for a career path for someone who is interested in teaching but not sure about wanting to actually follow the traditional teacher path (Bachelor's, teaching certificate, public school)...for various reasons, one being the length of time in school necessary.

So she was researching becoming a Teacher's Assistant / Aide... there's an Associate Degree program here in town for that. I don't think the pay is very good though for that kind of work but I guess it's a good way to find out if you want to go forward and become a full fledged teacher.

I thought maybe something that paid better and would still be related to what she likes about teaching would be Occupational Therapist Assistant. Also 2 years and seems to pay better and be in more demand (?), but most jobs seem to be working with geriatric populations and I don't think that's her "thing". She would like to work with teens or adults.

What else can you think of that has teaching elements that might fit the bill? She has been inspired by her own community college professors and instructors who have taken a personal interest in their students and who seem to really care about helping them succeed. Basically what's appealing is helping someone overcome difficulties and do things they didn't think they'd be able to do.

What does one need to do to teach adults? I'm thinking in terms of GED teachers, basic literacy, that sort of thing. She doesn't seem interested in heavy-medical related like nursing, MA, surgical tech, etc.

Anyone want to brainstorm?