HOW TO PUSH THROUGH AS A WORKING MOTHER & STUDENT

More and more institutions offer online studies that are flexible and adapted to the modern fast-paced way of life.Being a working mother is demanding, as you often need to balance family responsibilities, and work commitments. If you’re ambitious, this includes studying. Luckily there are ways to manage all three roles very successfully! 

Good Institutions of Higher Learning understand that further studies can be difficult and overwhelming at times, which is why IIE MSA, a brand of The Independent Institute of Education (The IIE), put together the following advice for those finding themselves in this challenging yet exciting position:

1) Make sure that you are ready and have evaluated whether you can balance both working and studying before you register, as that greatly impacts your ability to successfully complete the chosen qualification or course.

2) Have a discussion with your employer regarding your study plans, so that they can factor your study leave in and ensure that you work smart, in order to complete all your tasks before going on study leave.

3) Meet and engage with your lecturers to better understand your course requirements and expectations so you can plan for family time without overlapping exam time.

4) Have a plan of action and create a timetable that you will follow. Plan ahead and stick to your plan, as this will help ensure that you stay on top of all your course materials and workload.

5) Sometimes you have to take a break from studying for your own sanity and have some fun spending time with your children - this will ensure you don’t feel as if you’re missing out on their routines.

6) Try to involve family and friends to help out with your children and babysit, especially when you need to study.

7) Cook and freeze food in advance to avoid preparing dinner every day, and have your study snacks safely hidden away from curious family members.

8) Consider using public transport such as the Gautrain, as that will allow you to study during the commute.

9) Remaining goal-driven, thinking positively and maintaining a ‘CAN DO’ attitude will drive you to persevere until you reach your goals, for both you, and your family.

*The Independent Institute of Education is SA's largest and most accredited private higher education provider.