15 answers
Roxanne
Student
Hoffman Estates, Illinois
4
Questions
Asked
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Starting school again was hard for financial reasons and being a single mom....has anyone else had to hold off on schooling due to financial reasons and how did you find a way to make things work?
Im a single mom and unsure how to start back up when i just lost my fulltime job and also need to find a job to pay for rent. #singlemomlife #career
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15 answers
Raquel Tramble
Career Advising
1
Answer
Stockbridge, Georgia
Updated
Raquel’s Answer
I definitely understand your frustration as I went through the same experience. Here's a few things that I suggest:
1. Figure out what career path you're interested in and see if there are ways that you can get certifications in that area until you are actually able to go back to school.
2. As far as you needing a job, I would recommend trying job boards specifically catered to moms like www.themomproject.com. Try searching on google "Job boards for moms". Flex Jobs is another great site for moms because most of the positions are work from home.
I hope this information helps!
-Millennial Career Mom, Raquel
1. Figure out what career path you're interested in and see if there are ways that you can get certifications in that area until you are actually able to go back to school.
2. As far as you needing a job, I would recommend trying job boards specifically catered to moms like www.themomproject.com. Try searching on google "Job boards for moms". Flex Jobs is another great site for moms because most of the positions are work from home.
I hope this information helps!
-Millennial Career Mom, Raquel
Allison Gilchrist
Loan Funding
1
Answer
Berwick, Maine
Updated
Allison’s Answer
As a single mom of three kids, I had to career change too. I understand how hard it is to work to pay the bills, have time for your family and go to school.
My best advice to you is to think carefully about what it is you want to do.
Will I be happy long term?
Will this career support my family?
How long will it take to complete the education and can I work in this field while going to school?
It took me a long time to figure out what I wanted to be and where I wanted to go. I started with a Saturday class and then moved to online class that I could complete in the evenings after time with the kids.
Don't give up! I had to stop and start to accomodate life but I got where I wanted to go.
My best advice to you is to think carefully about what it is you want to do.
Will I be happy long term?
Will this career support my family?
How long will it take to complete the education and can I work in this field while going to school?
It took me a long time to figure out what I wanted to be and where I wanted to go. I started with a Saturday class and then moved to online class that I could complete in the evenings after time with the kids.
Don't give up! I had to stop and start to accomodate life but I got where I wanted to go.
Excellent advice!!!
erin boggan
yes this js exactly what im having trouble with...what do i like what am i good at....thank you....
Roxanne
Morgan Deschamps
Assistant Branch Manager
2
Answers
New Hartford, New York
Updated
Morgan’s Answer
Hi Roxanne!
When I was younger I dropped out of college to pursue my career and I have regretted it!! Recently I decided to take the plunge and finish up my degree! I take 2 courses a semester as I have 2 little ones at home and work full time. Thankfully I have an employer that pays majority of my tuition and helps with the cost of books. When searching for a new job I would take that into consideration if the employer would be willing to help assist you with paying for school so you can finish your degree too.
Best of luck to you, I know it can be hard but just start with one foot in front of the other and you will get to your goals!
When I was younger I dropped out of college to pursue my career and I have regretted it!! Recently I decided to take the plunge and finish up my degree! I take 2 courses a semester as I have 2 little ones at home and work full time. Thankfully I have an employer that pays majority of my tuition and helps with the cost of books. When searching for a new job I would take that into consideration if the employer would be willing to help assist you with paying for school so you can finish your degree too.
Best of luck to you, I know it can be hard but just start with one foot in front of the other and you will get to your goals!
Brent Baron
Banker
1
Answer
Leominster, Massachusetts
Updated
Brent’s Answer
I’m not a mother but rather a father. I first became a father at 19 years old and had to drop out of school to support my new family. My best advice would be to first find a new job that can support you NOW.
Once you start to get your feet underneath you then you can start thinking about school again. The pressure of “needing” a degree can mount and make you feel like you aren’t doing things right but having a good footing before going back to school is key. It is ok to set school aside to get financially stable.
After you find something steady to support you, take a look at your finances to make sure what your money is going to is absolutely necessary. You may find that you can cut certain costs out of your life which can then be set aside for school.
Lastly, never be afraid to take a course or two at a time. If you want or need a degree, it doesn’t mean you need to get it right away. It doesn’t matter how big of a step you take as long as it’s a step forward!!
Once you start to get your feet underneath you then you can start thinking about school again. The pressure of “needing” a degree can mount and make you feel like you aren’t doing things right but having a good footing before going back to school is key. It is ok to set school aside to get financially stable.
After you find something steady to support you, take a look at your finances to make sure what your money is going to is absolutely necessary. You may find that you can cut certain costs out of your life which can then be set aside for school.
Lastly, never be afraid to take a course or two at a time. If you want or need a degree, it doesn’t mean you need to get it right away. It doesn’t matter how big of a step you take as long as it’s a step forward!!
very positive and honest outlook.....i feel soo old trying to go back at 37 and with almost 20 years i wonder if i could even do it. good for you on going back after lifes new chapters began!
Roxanne
Desiree Warnke
Commercial Credit Associate - Analyst
5
Answers
Denville, New Jersey
Updated
Desiree’s Answer
Hi Roxanne,
I was in the same boat with schooling and now am a mother too so I understand. Luckily, I fell into a profession with a company that offered a tuition reimbursement program. At the time I was an admin. assistant in Commercial lending and wanted to learn more about the field. With my job, I was able to pay rent, and with the night classes which were reimbursed, I was able to complete the Accounting classes needed to get into my employers credit training program. It was during this transition that I realized I was going to do what I loved to do.
Like the above responses said, I also think you need to think about what career path you want to choose first... even if its at the bottom in order to still pay rent and end up doing what you love at the same time.
Good luck.
I was in the same boat with schooling and now am a mother too so I understand. Luckily, I fell into a profession with a company that offered a tuition reimbursement program. At the time I was an admin. assistant in Commercial lending and wanted to learn more about the field. With my job, I was able to pay rent, and with the night classes which were reimbursed, I was able to complete the Accounting classes needed to get into my employers credit training program. It was during this transition that I realized I was going to do what I loved to do.
Like the above responses said, I also think you need to think about what career path you want to choose first... even if its at the bottom in order to still pay rent and end up doing what you love at the same time.
Good luck.
Anne Pratt
Manager
2
Answers
Pittsfield, Massachusetts
Updated
Anne’s Answer
Some employers offer a benefit of paying for school! I started working at the bank and taking 1 or 2 classes at a time. The bank paid 100% for my classes and books. I opted for online classes to make the balance of work/home/school easier.
Lisa Bullock
Compliance Associate
2
Answers
Springfield, Massachusetts
Updated
Lisa’s Answer
Begin researching online classes. Online classes are wonderful as you can take them when you have time. Many years ago, I was taking online classes and took them at night after the kids went to bed.
Brian Sullivan
Retail Banking
5
Answers
Stafford, Connecticut
Updated
Brian’s Answer
Hi Roxanne,
Welcome to the world of being an adult student! After some full time studies, I had left school and a major I did not enjoy to start a different career. Along the way came bills and a family, so it took a bit for me to get back in.
To keep costs down, certainly look at your public options such as community colleges and public universities. Many are doing things with blended learning w/online to help someone trying to balance jobs, family and school. Some states have programs that allow you to get your 2 year at community college, and guarantee your entry to a 4 year, if that is what you are pursuing.
A little at time at what you handle. 1 class a semester, 2 classes, whatever works for you. For myself and many of the colleagues I work with today, it's rewarding when you get to the end.
Definitely look for employers that offer tuition reimbursement. For some, the course has to be either job or degree related, so be sure to check the fine print.
Good luck!!!
Welcome to the world of being an adult student! After some full time studies, I had left school and a major I did not enjoy to start a different career. Along the way came bills and a family, so it took a bit for me to get back in.
To keep costs down, certainly look at your public options such as community colleges and public universities. Many are doing things with blended learning w/online to help someone trying to balance jobs, family and school. Some states have programs that allow you to get your 2 year at community college, and guarantee your entry to a 4 year, if that is what you are pursuing.
A little at time at what you handle. 1 class a semester, 2 classes, whatever works for you. For myself and many of the colleagues I work with today, it's rewarding when you get to the end.
Definitely look for employers that offer tuition reimbursement. For some, the course has to be either job or degree related, so be sure to check the fine print.
Good luck!!!
Cath Absalon
Associate Manager
2
Answers
Pasay, Metro Manila, Philippines
Updated
Cath’s Answer
I went through a similar experience back in college. I had to start working prior to finishing school. In an ideal setting, you can choose to start working for something in line with your interests or skills you're good at. At a young age, I realized it's totally different in the real world. I got a job that's out of my comfort zone. What I appreciate about that is the fact that it helped me realize my potentials, develop skills I thought I never had and it helped me expand my network. I got to interact with people of different age brackets, culture & background which helped in making me a better communicator and relate to people better. This network should help you gain more tips & best practices on how to manage your current situation. Hope this helps!
Ashley Sheldon
Commercial Credit Associate
6
Answers
Syracuse, New York
Updated
Ashley’s Answer
I graduated with so much student loan debt from my bachelors degree and went right to work after graduation so I never followed my plan to go back and get my masters degree and I regret not furthering my education before life continued getting busier and busier.
Online classes can be more afordable plus there is much more flexibility to allow you to still have time for a job and kids.
Possibly try finding a job that is willing to help finance your next level in education to help with the costs.
Don't keep putting it off because the more time goes on the more life seems to find ways to make it more difficult.
Ashley recommends the following next steps:
Debi Creasman
Sales
1
Answer
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Debi’s Answer
Take your time and try online lessons! Online courses let you work and study at any hour of the day. They are NOT easier, by any means, but they do offer flexibility in scheduling.
Diana Malave
Portfolio Manager
5
Answers
Albany, New York
Updated
Diana’s Answer
I understand and was in the similar situation before I started my career. It would start by looking at community colleges because many have resources that the big universities don't offer. My kids attended the daycare on campus for a low fee because at the time my income was low. Not to mention that the community colleges have courses to help you find out what you want to do and they offer larger variety. In addition to that they offered free tutoring in the campus library and the teachers worked with me. I later graduated with honors and received two scholarships to two different colleges, transferred my credit and completed my degree.
While in college I registered at two temp agencies and worked on fulltime temp work. They agency placed me in call centers, state office positions and other administrative offices. This helped tremendously because the work experience was there when I graduated even if it was not in my field.
Research local community colleges in your area to see what they offer.
Meet with campus groups that support non-traditional students. Foe example in NY many colleges have Educational Oppotunity Program (EOP) and other programs focused on helping students succeed.
Ask if there is childcare services on campus
Register with at least two temp agencies or apply at local call centers. The call centers train you and some offer bonuses for good work.
While in college I registered at two temp agencies and worked on fulltime temp work. They agency placed me in call centers, state office positions and other administrative offices. This helped tremendously because the work experience was there when I graduated even if it was not in my field.
Diana recommends the following next steps:
Alexander Urkiel
Risk Analyst
8
Answers
Westfield, Massachusetts
Updated
Alexander’s Answer
Community college is a great and affordable way to get started! I highly recommend community college for a number of reasons! They offer great financial aid, you have smaller class sizes so it's easier to make great connections with students and professors and it's flexible! Great day and night classes! From there you and likely transfer to a 4 year college with additional financial aid.
John Ortiz
Security Analyst
3
Answers
Middletown, Connecticut
Updated
John’s Answer
Hi Roxanne,
Living off one income is so hard. I feel you. I want to iterate the number one thing we need to do in these circumstances is budget, budget and budget before you start anything. Cut down on things that are not important right now. Yes it is going to be frustrating for the kids if you need to cut basketball or other sports but this is the only way you will be able to move forward and know whats coming in and what is going out before you pursue anything else.
An example on budgeting: If you are paying for a cable bill cut it just have internet. Everything is all about streaming online. If you have phone service with T-mobile or another service, than disconnect the internet. You could accomplish everything on a phone. This will save $$$ people do not know how much money they could save with just a phone.
Do not jump into something that is going to make you miserable. If it is urgent then get on it to help you bounce back up but stay on your path to happiness. Their are online classes that are free which makes it more flexible and state programs that help pay schooling for single moms to pursue their careers. But most important budget, budget and budget. This will help you so significantly and this might not be important for others but God will always prevail if you put him first in your life.
Hope this was helpful,
Living off one income is so hard. I feel you. I want to iterate the number one thing we need to do in these circumstances is budget, budget and budget before you start anything. Cut down on things that are not important right now. Yes it is going to be frustrating for the kids if you need to cut basketball or other sports but this is the only way you will be able to move forward and know whats coming in and what is going out before you pursue anything else.
An example on budgeting: If you are paying for a cable bill cut it just have internet. Everything is all about streaming online. If you have phone service with T-mobile or another service, than disconnect the internet. You could accomplish everything on a phone. This will save $$$ people do not know how much money they could save with just a phone.
Do not jump into something that is going to make you miserable. If it is urgent then get on it to help you bounce back up but stay on your path to happiness. Their are online classes that are free which makes it more flexible and state programs that help pay schooling for single moms to pursue their careers. But most important budget, budget and budget. This will help you so significantly and this might not be important for others but God will always prevail if you put him first in your life.
Hope this was helpful,
thank you....ive always believed that God wouldnt give me more than i could handle and that everything ive been through has made me stronger. On budgeting....ive done just about everything to cut costs to live frugally. Worked a full/part time job, selling things i owned, surveys/polls for cash, and giving rides, no cable/internet. Ive kinda had bad luck...consistent bad luck that has made it super hard to actually have emergency/savings
Roxanne
.i tried to find funding for school that everyone says is available for single moms.. if you could tell me what you know then id appreciate it. I do not qualify for any assistance at all...when i worked i made too much and even having lost my job...bad luck...i still make too much for anything because of a dependent credit of 100 that puts me over the income..hard work and nothing to show from it. i chose to go to school so that maybe it would open doors for me. maybe a better pay with less hours would be nice so i dont have to miss any additional time with him🤷🏻
Roxanne
Elizabeth Berthiaume
Underwriter
3
Answers
Killingly, Connecticut
Updated
Elizabeth’s Answer
I was lucky enough to find a job where my employer paid most of the cost of tuition. It worked out really well for me. I worked full time and took online courses. The online courses were great for me. I could do work during the kids' practices, while doing homework with them or at night after they went to bed. I personally decided to only take 1 course at a time so it took me quite a bit longer to finish, but it was worth it. I felt like I really accomplished something for myself and my family.
thank you! i had planned to go part time and look for full time work but i switched it around. now my schedule is a little scary so i think ill have to figure that out.. thanks for your input on this
Roxanne