If you manage to do every little bit one thing at
a time when you look back its amazing that you have done so
much.
What's your top tip for other student parents?
Be organised ,stay focused and have a good network of
childcare available. It might seem a lot of work to do or new stuff
to get to grips with but if you manage to do every little bit one
thing at a time when you look back its amazing that you have done
so much.
Why did you choose to go to university?
So I could get a better career for myself and improve my
daughter's life.
What are the best bits of university life?
The freedom of studying as and when it fits in with my family
(other than set lecture times) - not as rigid as work
hours.
The chance to learn something at an advanced level.
Clubs and societies, although most of these are evenings and
often not manageable when you have a child if you have no other
childcare.
What have been the biggest challenges?
Finding suitable childcare. Overcoming feelings of guilt and
separation when leaving my daughter with a child minder so I could
study.
How do you cope with money?
It's hard, but I make it work. I have dropped out of study in
the past due to lack of money. However the extra financial support
available now I have a child has made it easier, although my
outgoings are higher and I have had to rely on financial support
from my grandparents. The first year was particularly hard, as I
had previous study and I was not entitled to a loan for my fees and
had to pay this myself. However it was worth it to finish the first
year.
What do you wish you had known before you started?
Just how much study and reading would be required.That I would
feel so guilty about not spending time with my daughter during the
week, even though I know it's for the greater good.
How do you juggle your responsibilities?
I plan my time well, and do assignments in plenty of time rather
than waiting till the last minute. Sometimes I spend time at home
rather then on campus if I have no lectures so I can do housework
when I have a break rather than socialising on campus.
Where will you be in 10 years time?
Hopefully I will have finished my degree, had another child and
finished my master's in careers advice and be working in a school
or college as a careers advisor.
What are your top money management tips?
Pay for the big things when you get your loan, like bus pass,
any new clothes, house stuff etc. but don't go crazy. Then
give yourself a weekly budget for living costs and take the cash
out on a weekly basis. Don't use cards, just spend what you have
for the week.