– Started college at 40 while raising 5 children
– Had a chaotic schedule and missed some kids’ events due to studies
– Eventually earned degree, created desired career, and became a role model to children
At the age of 40, while raising five children, I decided to go back to college to pursue the education I always wanted. Juggling family responsibilities, household chores, and schoolwork was chaotic, but with the support of my husband, I managed to earn my degree in English. My determination to prove my father wrong, who told me I wasn’t smart enough for college, inspired me to succeed. Over the course of 10 years, I balanced my college studies with parenting duties, sacrificing some of the children’s activities and perfect housekeeping standards.
I enrolled in a community college, where I majored in English and communications. Despite the challenges of conflicting schedules and multiple responsibilities, I utilized every moment to study, involving my children by sharing what I learned. With the help of my husband and by delegating household tasks to my children, I made it through my college journey. I would often multitask, recording class notes while doing chores or shopping for groceries with the children.
After earning my degree, I continued my education at the University of Pennsylvania on a scholarship. Today, I write for magazines, facilitate writing workshops, and have created the career I always wanted. Looking back, I am proud to have set an example for my children, who now excel in college and appreciate the sacrifices I made to achieve my goals. Starting college as a mother of five at 40 was challenging, but the rewards of earning my degree have been worth the effort.