Going Back to College as a Single Parent
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According to the National Postsecondary Student Aid Study, 22% of undergraduate students are parents. Nearly half of these students are single mothers.
As a single parent, going back to college may seem like an overwhelming and daunting task. However, the benefits that come with furthering your education can greatly improve your life and the lives of your children.
We’ll discuss the benefits of going back to college as a single parent and provide tips on how to manage the challenges that may arise. Whether you’re considering it for the first time or are already on your educational journey, here’s why you should consider going back to college as a single parent.
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Why Go Back to College as a Single Parent?
While the challenges are real, the benefits are significant, both personally and professionally. As a single parent, furthering your education can provide a more stable financial future for your family, improve your job prospects, and set a positive example for your children.
Benefits for You
Allows you to follow your passions and achieve a sense of accomplishment- Enhances your employment opportunities and earning potential
- Provides access to better job benefits, health insurance, and pension plans
- Gives you the opportunity to build support networks and access to financial assistance through scholarships
Benefits for Your Children
- Can instill the value of education in your children and motivate them to pursue their own educational goals
- Children whose parents went to college are more likely to attend college themselves
- Increased financial stability can create a more supportive and enriching environment
Challenges of Going Back to College as a Single Parent
Going back to college as a single parent also presents a unique set of challenges. These include managing your time between parenting, studying, and working, addressing financial concerns, and striking a balance between your studies and parenting responsibilities.
Time Management
Efficient time management is crucial for single parents going back to college. Balancing your responsibilities as a parent, student, and possibly a worker requires careful planning and organization.
Set clear priorities and create a structured schedule that includes your work hours, class schedules, study periods, your child’s activities, and personal time for rest and relaxation.
Financial Considerations
Finances are another major concern for single parents returning to college. Tuition fees, textbooks, and other education-related expenses can put a strain on your budget.
However, there are numerous financial aid options available to single parents, including federal grants, state-specific grants and scholarships, and private scholarships. Start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for financial aid. Also, consider creating a detailed budget to manage your college expenses and household costs efficiently.
Balancing Parenting and Studying
The challenge of balancing parenting and studying can seem daunting, but with the right strategies, it can be managed. Seek help from family, friends, and school resources to ease childcare and household responsibilities.
You can also seek out universities that offer unique support services for parents, like daycare, family housing, parent service centers, a food pantry or free meals, and dedicated scholarships.
Choosing the Right College Program as a Single Parent
It’s essential to choose a program that aligns with your career goals, suits your personal circumstances, and provides the flexibility you need as a single parent.
Consider Online Learning
Online learning can be an excellent choice for single parents due to its flexibility. It allows you to study at your own pace and schedule, which can be particularly beneficial if you’re juggling multiple responsibilities.
You can study during times that are most convenient for you, such as when your children are asleep or at school. Plus, learning online eliminates commuting costs and provides access to digital resources, potentially reducing the overall cost of your education.
Look for Flexible Scheduling
Flexible scheduling options, such as evening or weekend classes and part-time enrollment, can greatly benefit single parents.
Many colleges understand the unique needs of single parents and offer flexible scheduling to accommodate their circumstances. Some institutions even provide recorded lectures that can be accessed at any time, offering more flexibility for single parents to balance their studies with their other responsibilities.
Choose a Degree that Aligns with Your Career Goals
Consider your long-term career goals and select a program that will help you achieve them. Whether you’re interested in nursing, business administration, psychology, information technology, or healthcare administration, it’s vital to choose a degree that offers good job prospects and financial stability.
Consult with career counselors for guidance in choosing a degree that suits your personal and professional goals.
Resources for Single Parents in College
Single parents in college have access to a variety of resources to support them in their educational journey. These include scholarships and grants specifically for single parents, childcare options, and supportive networks.
The Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Support Award
This $5,000 scholarship is named after former Congresswoman Mink. The scholarship is for student parents who are enrolled in an accredited certificate, degree, or training program. Applicants must have a low-income status according to the IRS.
Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS)
This federal program provides funding for on-campus childcare services at colleges, helping low-income student parents. You can check with your school’s admissions department to see if they have a CCAMPIS program you can participate in.
Single Moms Planet
This organization provides a variety of resources for single mothers. They have business development, mentorship, and financial literacy programs. They also offer a single moms grocery program that can help provide food and resources.
Editor’s Note: This article contains general information and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. Please consult a professional advisor before making decisions about financial issues.
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