In my case, though, I'd have to start from scratch. Like I was 18, not like I was 22.
So it's a really scary idea.
On the other hand, if nothing else changes in my life, I don't want to work this kind of job until I'm sixty-five or seventy. And though it could take at least half a decade to switch, that still leaves me with a lot of years left before retirement. Just seems like I'm still too old for that kind of commitment to change, though.
I guess I'm havin' a mid-life crisis of sorts. ;-)
I know lots of folks who did just that. I took classes with lots of them! The problem is figuring out what you want to do, and then the commitment to doing it.
Plenty of careers you could get with two years at the community college (ok, not going full time it would take longer but they offer summer classes too.)
Go for it! For all the reasons you stated and for the chance to go out and meet more people. You never know what you might find. Jen is right, there are lots of jobs that only need a 2 year degree. And many dovetail into ones that could use a 4 year degree. There is really no down side. Other than time spent on it, and you have that so go for it.
I went into a field that I totally do not have the degree for. The sink-or-swim intern phase was a little overwhelming, but... for all of this job's faults, I thank heaven I'm not teaching any more.
It's totally scary - and extremely stressful. I wouldn't have been brave enough if it hadn't been for Big'ol. You're luckier - you've got a support net stretched all across this continent rooting for you.