Are Any of My Fellow Moms Considering Going Back to College?

I just actually started back after 4 children and 17 years. I kept saying after the kids get older, but they kept coming. :-) Needless to say, it was and is really scary. I do online school via the University of Phoenix. I am 2 classes in and not so sure of how this next class is going to go. I say go for it for anyone who is considering it. You can do anything that you put your mind to.

M.,

I am curious about your post. I am a stay at home mom and would like to possibly go back to school, my concerns are childcare, how will I pay for it, and what do I really want to be when I "grow up". Another big reason is homework-how will I do it when will I find time, and do I really want to have to deal with it?.

A.

Hi M.~
I just returned to college this fall. I had been putting it off for a while because I have 2 young children at home. I'd have to say...my kids ended up being the best motivation I could have ever asked for. I have been a stay at home mom for a few years now, and I love it. But then I think...I can't be a SAHM forever-eventually my kids will all be in school! I decided to do it now because I can still be done with all 4 years by the time I'm 31. At that point my youngest (which I am currently expecting) will be able to enter into a Pre-K program. One thing that did help me along the way was a great friend of mine offering assistance to me. Because it will take on a big financial requirement, this friend of mine is helping me out with childcare. I'd have to say that one thing in particular was my pushing point. It was very hard at first, but now that I'm 3 months into it, I wouldn't trade it at all. It was such a relief going back, knowing that I'm doing something for myself that will eventually be a great decision for myself, my husband, and especially my kids. In all honesty, the hardest part was the 2 months before starting classes. I had a lot of second-thoughts running thru my head, but once I actually stepped into my first class, it all felt right.
I really can't offer any personal suggestions for you, but it has to be right for YOU. If you have any doubts, it will make it a much harder adjustment.
If you want to talk more, feel free to send me a message!
Good luck to you!!
J.

I have a 8 year old and a 7 month old and I recently made the decision to go back to college. I was concerned about going to classes, having daycare, and having to miss out on work, being that I am a waitress I had the thought of if I don't work I don't get paid. I decided to do online classes through University of Phoenix. It is an acredited college so when I get my associates I can transfer to a different college if that's what I choose to do. They also have campuses close to me if I need to have a one on one at any time. Being that I'm home with the 7 month old all day his nap times typically leave me free to get any and all my work done so it works. I would just say weigh your options, find what works for you and your family and I'm sure things will work out. Also discuss it with your family and I'm sure they would be more then willing to help achieve such a big goal in your life, it's the best thing you could do for your children and family. GOOD LUCK!! :)

I too am curious about your post. I would LOVE to go back to school. I left school to raise my daughter years ago with a 4.0. I have a major and a minor and only 10 more clases to complete. Now I have three children and was just about to go back when my husband left. I'm currently going through a divorce. And I have virtually no money, precious little time and no one to watch my two year old while I attend classes. I also work 10 hour days and am unsure about online classes. But if there was somewhere I felt that my childeren would be safe and I could afford it I would seriously give it a go.

I am 38 years old and returned to school last year. If all goes well, I should graduate either May '10 or August '10. I'm not sure which one because going back to school was a bit misleading. They (BenU) said that we were all returning adults and it was suitable for those who work full time and are raising a family. It was very overwhelming, but I have 5-6 more classes to go. If I were graduate in May, I would have to double up on 2 more classes, so basically that means not just going full time, it's full time, times 2. I've already doubled up on 2 classes and i wouldn't want to wish that on anyone. My husband wants to return to school as well and I told him I would suggest he start off part time in order to get all of his electives completed first and then go full time. If he is allowed to do that, he would not have to double up at all and would more than likely reach his goal. Unfortunatly, BenU doesn't allow part timers (I feel it's all about the money and not what's right for the student). I don't regret going, my kids are 3 & 4 years old, but it's pretty much been the hardest thing I've done (outside raising the kids). Once you get there, you come to know everyone is about as nervous as you. The classes are fairly small 14 students in my cohort class. But, you seriously have to spend every waking moment studying. Working full time makes it pretty difficult.

I'm guessing you work at a college and are trying to figure out ways to get more people to attend. If that's the case, I would make it easier for the moms by allowing them to take electives first so that they can avoid having to double up. So far I've got A's in all my classes and I'd love to continue getting them. I doubt I will if I double up on 2 more classes.

Hi M.,

I lost my job about 4 months ago and ever since I've made up my mind about going back to school and finish. However because of my family economic situation, my chances are very slim, also when I get enrolled it would have to only be part time being that I still need to find a full time job to support my family. It definitley is a challenge but completley worthwhile...

I have an 8 month old son. I started grad school when my son was two months old. I will begin studying for the CPA also. Since I am a SAHM and wife, I need the outlet, plus when I return to work, I will have new skills to offer:-)

I went back and got my Master's a few years ago-it was very challenging but I'm very glad I did it. My schedule was crazy, about three nights a week I had to pick up my child after work, (I shortened my hours slightly there), put some dinner on the table and rush out the door to get back downtown for my classes. And of course I had tons of stuff to do, papers and projects etc. I was up many a late night. But I found the experience stimulating intellectually as well and it has contributed to my starting a new career etc.
You will need to be super organized and of course support from the family is essential. Good luck!

Hi M.--I recently went back to college myself to finish my bachelor's degree. I am 37 years old, have 2 kids and work full-time. I had the "it's now or never" mentality when I finally decided to take the leap! I go to school one night a week and will graduate from Greenville Christian College in May 2011. My children are very excited and think it's "cool" that mom is in school, too. They are 10 and 6 years old. My biggest concern was the "family" time it would take away from them, but my husband has been tremendously supportive. They usually go to bed around 8-8:30 p.m., so I had to sacrifice my evening TV shows and now I study. Thank goodness for the DVR!! ha ha. I cannot wait for graduation day and am more excited than ever that my children get to be a part of that experience and sit in the audience and watch me walk across the stage with my cap and gown and finally GRADUATE from college--20 years later, but at least I am finally doing it :-) You will never regret your decision to further your education and in the economy today, you will be opening more doors and options for your career. Good Luck and go get 'em!!!

I am a 33 year old single parent of a 2 year old and returned to school this fall. I am taking courses online. I enjoy that environment because of the schedule flexibility. The con is that it involves a lot of reading & writing. Moreso than a classroom environment because in a classroom you discuss ideas. Online you have to write them. I also enjoy the online classroom because I have a chart that shows me how time I've spent in class. I've had good weeks & bad weeks. One week when I was overly stressed from work was my bad week. But, I always put forth the best I had to give to school in each individual moment. My daughter is two and I am a single parent so this is working for me so far. I'm sure there will be challenges along the way but life is full of them so I can deal with that. Good luck. You will do well. Don't pressure yourself too much. Don't expect a lot from yourself. Do what you can do when you can do it. The overall result will be outstanding!

Hi M.,
I just started going back to school, and it has been great! I go to school online, and it is very convenient. It is fast-paced, but really interesting. I am about to go back to work, and with two kids, it would have been hard to get consistent childcare while going to a traditional university. This is my first time going back after 10 years, and it has been rewarding. Just do what it best for you, and your situation. You'll know when the time is right.

All the Best!

Thanks for posting this question.
There aren't many reliefs for Mothers in this country to begin with. I think colleges should offer some type of babysitting services for single mothers/ fathers so they can propell to a better opportunity either upgrading or starting their own business.
I prefer interaction and NO distrction so online service would not work for me. Do you know if any colleges do offer child care onsite for students?
I am referring to Palatine, Schaumburg area.

M.,

I have thought about changing careers and going back to school for way too long. My advice to you is not to procratinate, and go and do it now. If I had done what I wanted to do 10yrs ago, I would not be sitting here hating my career, and at least enjoying what I do.

I'm close to 52 and yes has considered going back to school.
Do I have concerns? yes. Will I be able to keep up with studies. Will I be able to retain what I learn. Have I chose the right school to attend and on and on. Not to mention finance.
w

I have been considering taking classes lately, especially due to the economy. I am looking at taking some kind of computer classes or such to improve skills and learn new systems. The things holding me back are time and money. Working full-time and 4 kids at home makes for a crazy life, plus my huband works second shift so no one at home in the evening to help out.