College is often referred to as one of the most influential four-year periods of a young adult’s life. The typical stereotype often includes partying from Thursday night into Sunday, getting involved in a dozen clubs, living in a small campus dorm or apartment with strangers who become your best friends, and keeping an impressive grade point average through it all.
I am a senior currently enrolled full-time, finishing out the last year of my undergraduate degree. Some aspects of my college life look like the majority: I’m involved in several on-campus clubs, I have found a circle of friends that I can relate to, and I am taking the time to explore the options available to me once that diploma hits my hand. However, many components of my life don’t look the same as my peers; I live in my own home off campus, which I share with my husband, mini poodle, and soon, my newborn daughter.
Navigating pregnancy as a full-time college student hasn’t been a walk in the park. The physical toll creating life takes on your body isn’t laughable – in fact, it’s one of the hardest processes I’ve experienced personally. However, continuing to pursue my degree as my family grows is one of the best decisions I’ve made. It has been rewarding knowing that my daughter will be able to appreciate my work one day and see the ways that my studies have impacted and supported our family. It has also given me a unique sort of confidence I haven’t experienced before, one that says I can do hard things.
Throughout my pregnancy, one of the most impactful resources I’ve utilized has been the Title IX Office. Once I informed the school of my pregnancy, the office was quick to reach out to me and discuss the challenges that I was facing as a pregnant student. From the start, the school helped me with modifications put in place that allowed me to miss class when needed to see the healthcare professionals involved in my prenatal care. This ensured that my course materials were still available to me regardless of the appointments and time off I needed. As my pregnancy progressed, the Title IX Office helped me to set up some additional modifications for my coursework, such as extended deadlines as needed and access to coursework ahead of time, anticipating my due date. This office has ensured that, despite my growing family, I continue to have access to the material and time I need to succeed academically.
As I approach my due date, I have less anxiety about falling behind in my coursework. Having the ability to work ahead during the earlier stages of pregnancy allows me to now relax and know that my stepping into motherhood doesn’t have to mean stepping back as a student; the two can coexist and complement each other — each role making the other stronger.
For other individuals who find themselves stepping into parenthood, know that there are resources available to support your academic success. Whether your life looks like the typical Netflix college series or more like you’re entering every chapter of life all at once, your story is an important one, and there is always a team that will help you to see it through.
