Celebrating the student mums and stepmums at #UniOfGlos
‘It’s never too late to follow your dreams’
Happy Mother’s Day! We want to take a minute to celebrate student mothers, stepmums and their awesome support networks. Juggling hours in the library with spending quality time with their children makes our community of mummy students true superstars!
We caught up with some students who are balancing motherhood with student life, sharing their favourite bits, challenges and tips along the way.
Meet Becky…
A first-year student on our Social Work BSc (Hons) course, Becky is studying to make a difference to people in need of support – helping them through difficult times, through assessing, supporting and safeguarding. All while being a mother to two boys in primary school.
In her own words…
Like most parents, I’ve always wanted the best for my children. I believe that training for a job that makes a real difference to people and communities will help the world become a little bit kinder for my children when they are adults. It can be challenging to juggle studying with parenthood. I’m learning to let go of some of the expectations I used to have; our routine is actually less stressful now than when I was working as I’m seeking balance, not perfection.
For parents looking to study I’d really encourage you to consider all you’ve achieved so far. Having children teaches you how to advocate, communicate, budget, organise and prioritise. You have everything you need within yourself to succeed!
Meet Hannah…
A second-year student on our Criminology and Sociology BSc (Hons) course, Hannah is able to pursue her interests to match her career goals through option modules covering a wide range of topics such as crime scene analysis, crimes against humanity and domestic violence. When she is not at Francis Close Hall, she is at home with her two children, Brayden and Grace, and their cat, Duchess.
In her own words…
Being a mum and a student has definitely made me become a lot more organised! Now, my life has to run to a tighter schedule in order to keep work, university and the kids’ needs in check. It has bought me out of myself again and I feel more confident in my abilities to learn, be myself and be a mother at the same time.
My tip for mums who are thinking about studying would be to go for it! Being a mum shouldn’t stop you from being you. My children have been inspired by seeing their mum going through the university experience and are now considering following Higher Education pathways for themselves. Always make sure you have little moments for you, it really helps!
Meet Anna…
A student on our Paramedic Science BSc (Hons) course, Anna is studying to progress her exhilarating and rewarding career as a Paramedic working at the frontline of healthcare. Alongside donning the green uniform, she is a mother to three-year-old Alexander.
In her own words…
Being a mother and studying is hard. However, I focus on the end goal and that I’m doing this all for him. Alexander loves the fact I go to “school” just like he does. The hours are tough, especially placement, but we make it work. We have a special mummy and son day once a week which we both love.
I would advise any mother to chase their dreams, no matter how hard it is. The end goal will be worth it!
Meet Jolisa…
Currently wrapping up her degree in Marketing (Advertising and Branding) BA (Hons), Jolisa is using her tools and experiences in, and out, of the classroom to develop her passions for creativity and moving into a professional role. She has also done a placement in marketing with Disney+, to help further her career ambitions. Less than a year ago, Jolisa became a mother to little Benjamin!
In her own words…
Having a baby going into my final year has really helped my prioritisation and organisation skills. And has forced me to adapt the way I approach my assignments.
If you are a mum juggling studies and motherhood, engage with your lecturers as much as possible. I’ve not always been able to attend lectures, but by keeping in regular contact I’ve been able to show my commitment to my course.
Meet Janine…
Alongside her studies on our Illustration MA course, Janine runs her own business and was featured in Greyson Perry’s critically acclaimed Art Club exhibition. She is also a stepmother, Janine says: “Being a stepmother is an honour and a gift to me.”
In her own words…
If you are thinking about studying and worried about the ‘balance’, I would say don’t let it hold you back! As mums/stepmums, we are already used to juggling. For me, studying whilst running my own business makes me a good role model for my step-daughter as she is getting older and about to embark on her own University journey too.
Meet Tash…
Studying on our Nursing (Adult) course, Tash is gaining experience on our ward simulators and is looking forward to working with real patients soon! Alongside working hard to qualify as a nurse, she is a mother to Brandon and Nola, and a stepmother to Noah and Isaac.
In her own words…
It can be exhausting juggling studies and placements with being a mum, but it’s all worth it! it’s showing the kids that even if your journey takes a few detours, it doesn’t mean you won’t eventually find your way.
If I could give any advice to any other mums thinking about going to the University, I would say do it. It will be tough, and you will have highs and lows, but think of the end goal and how proud of you the kids will be at your graduation.
A special shout-out for Mother’s Day to all the students who are juggling parenthood and studies, you are superstars! If you are a parent thinking about starting university but worried about what it might mean for your family, get in touch with our admissions team via [email protected] .
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