Ask The Mamas: Going back to School
Each week we will ask our mamas a question from our readers that pertains to babies, kids, or parenting. Make sure to check back each Tuesday to see their responses!
Do you have a question you’d like to ask the mamas? If so, send us an email with your question to askthemamas@mamasaywhat.com.
Mama Say What?! reader Hanna S. asks, “I’m going back to school to finish my degree. Any tips from mamas who have been there?!”
I’m currently in nursing school, working 2 jobs, and have 3 kids (ages 8, 3 and 1) so it’s doable but be prepared for long nights. Biggest key… Organization! Also can’t do it without my support system either. I got a nanny this semester and it’s been amazing! ~Miriam R.
I have struggled for six years to decide if I want to get my master’s degree and haven’t committed. I have finished one insurance designation (online classes and computer tests at special testing facilities) and am working on a leadership certificate program through work (also online and with mentoring, book reading assignments, etc.) My advice is to start small so you aren’t overwhelmed. If I don’t end up getting my master’s degree, at the very least I have furthered my education and added to my resume and still have some type of work-life balance. ~Sarah K.
You have to be prepared to not give something your all. Sometimes things will get the short end of the stick and that’s okay. Sometimes I do homework at work. And sometimes I have to answer work email during class. Just remember that it all evens out. ~Amanda P.
It took me 28 years to finish. I stopped for every move and every baby. We moved 14 times. I finally finished in 2006. Keep going. Get good childcare. No guilt! They will be fine and you will be great! ~Sue F.
I was not in this position, but my own mama was! She had three children and then my father (her husband) passed away. She didn’t have a college education and knew that she needed one if she was ever going to make enough to support her family. She started attending classes during the day at a local community college while we were in school and just took 1-2 classes a semester. It took several years, but she did it! ~Mary Ellen M.