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Main Pros and Cons of Working as a Mom While in College

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College can be challenging, especially if you’re a mom. It might seem overwhelming when you combine parenting with school and a job. However, many moms today are able to handle all 3 aspects of their life, albeit with some challenges.

If you’re a mom wondering if you can do the same, you might want to read until the end. In this article, we explore the pros and cons that come with working as a mom while in college.

Working as a Mom While in College: 3 Main Pros and Cons

If you’re a working mom wondering if you should go back to school, you might want to consider these 3 pros and 3 cons before making that decision:

Pros

  • You can secure financial aid
  • You’re more likely to be focused
  • You can take your child with you

Cons

  • Less time to rest
  • The increased cost of living
  • Fewer socialization opportunities

Pros

  • You can secure financial aid

Single moms are usually the recipients of some sort of financial aid. This can come through the state, school, or even private institutions. The reason why this is so is to encourage more parents that are brave enough to go back to college. This means even if you’re a young mom working, you are more likely to save money and invest it in your child’s future. The amount you get as financial support will vary depending on the number of children you have, the state you’re in, and the college you attend.

  • You’re more likely to be focused

For a student, there are so many things that can be distracting. However, as we grow older and become parents, our responsibilities tend to help us mature as individuals. Being a parent means you’re less likely to find yourself attending parties or other events that could distract you. Teachers also tend to appreciate moms that are pursuing education, which means you could gain support from your teachers in the form of extra tutoring.

  • You can take your child with you

Going to college doesn’t mean you get to be separated from your children. Many colleges offer accommodation for parents coming with their children. Alternatively, you can be offered convenient study hours or education from home.

Cons

  • Less time to rest

Being a parent is a full-time job that doesn’t ever really stop. You might need to calm your child at night, which means less quality sleep. When you combine it with essay assignments, you might quickly find yourself getting overwhelmed. When you feel this way, you can use LetsGradeIt to read reviews of the best essay writing companies. After all, reviews are unbiased and the products of thorough research. But when it comes to studying, you will need to do this yourself.

  • The increased cost of living

While the state and school might offer financial aid to single moms, children are expensive to take care of. Baby formulas and diapers, for instance, cost a lot of money. In some cases, you might even need to hire a babysitter so that you can make it to class on time.

  • Fewer socialization opportunities

The average age of a college student is 26 years. Their interest may revolve around frat parties and social media. Trying to socialize with them might not always be easy. As a parent, you are not likely to spend time in the same circles as your fellow students. However, succeeding in college will require you to work with others either as part of a project or study group. You will need to make some effort on your part to adjust, which might not be easy for everyone.

Final Thoughts

Being a parent, an employee, and a student is likely one of the hardest things to pull off, but it’s possible. Many moms have been able to combine all 3 aspects of their lives, but it usually requires much dedication, planning, and certain sacrifices. Before you make the decision to go down a similar path, you need to make sure you have taken the time to consider all the pros and cons mentioned in this article. 

Author’s Bio

Carl Hill is a freelance writer, parent, and college advisor. His ability to understand, empathize, and share helpful feedback makes him good at his job. After working with students, parents, and employees over the years, Carl has come to understand the challenges all three face. It’s Carl’s aim to be as helpful as possible, so you can expect future articles such as this one.

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