Education (Adminstrative, Teaching, etc.): Grants Administrator

Introduction
The advice I give is good for almost any career. Start with a college degree (in almost any field) and learn to be well organized. Common sense and good judgement are the most valuable attributes, and computer skills (not just internet browsing and instant messaging, but real skills like spreadsheets and databases) are essential.

Job Function
This job challenges my administrative and managerial abilities. It is diverse and interesting most of the time, with challenges and obstacles. The best part is when a grant I was involved in submitting gets funded and I get to tell the individual involved that s/he got the grant.

What I like least is dealing with certain personality types, particularly prima donna faculty who have Ph.D.s but absolutely no common sense or interpersonal skills. Lifestyle
Working in a higher education setting is pleasant. There is no "profit motive" and for the most part a college is a caring community of kind people. Basically my hours are nine to five, but I can't always leave at five if there is a pending deadline to be met.
To work in this environment one needs to be able to deal with all kinds of people, from college presidents and faculty, to government bureaucrats, students, payroll clerks and vendors.

Additional Information
If you are interested in getting an administrative job in a college or university, you will most likely have to start with an entry level position and work your way up. If you are bright, willing to learn, and can demonstrate good judgement and common sense, you should be able to go far.

Good luck!