Non-traditional college students (meaning those who aren't attending straight out of high school, may be a little older, or who have families) face an additional set of struggles during their years spent in the world of academia. While juggling classes, tests and projects, non-traditional college students, especially those who are parents, must also juggle family responsibilities. This can be a challenge because it's not just making sure your children are fed and have clean clothes to wear to school before you commute to your own school, but also spending quality time with your kids.
Spending time, reading, dancing or just listening to how their day was while truly listening can be hard at times. I have found I must make myself slow down so I can accomplish all of this. In the mornings once I'm out the door and headed to school, I must put my head in a whole different place and compartmentalize everything. When I'm home with the kids, I try to only focus on them so I can be a good mom. I know their time spent as kids is such a short time space and these moments in life won't last forever. I don't want to loose track of the important reasons I went back to college in the first place, which was to set a good example for my daughters, to become an educated critical thinker as well as be able to provide a better life for my family. I'm so excited to be near the finish line and have enjoyed my experiences and time at the university.
If you're a parent, mother or father, whether you're in your early 20's or 40's and want to go back to school, don't let your children be your excuse for not returning. You don't have to attend traditional classes in the university setting, which is what I do and is probably the most challenging. You can attend class one night a week, now you can attend class in your PJ's online from your home, you can enroll in a vocational training course which will allow you to train sooner and get into a new career field quicker than attending a four-year university. Take the time to explore the many options that are now available to adults and don't be afraid to try something new. In the beginning, starting something is always the hardest part. Once you get going, you'll have a new routine, and everything will fall into place. Don't let anything stand in your way. Don't forget to spend quality time with your kids, be super organized and manage your time well (which is the hardest part of all) and most of all, don't forget to take care of yourself. It's easy to become so busy your forget to take care of yourself by eating right, getting daily exercise and getting enough rest each day (I'm guilty of these things). Also, taking time to mediate or pray and connect to your spiritual side is important too. Be the best parent and college student you can be.
GO FOR IT!! ~ Shelly
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Shelly Perkins Photography & Art
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