Balancing Books and Babies: The Struggles of Student-Working Parents

For many known as granite city, Aberdeen is home for thousands of students that travel miles to study in the city. Sarah A., a 32-year-ol mother of two, rushes from her part-time job at a local café to her classes at Robert Gordon University. Like many student-working parents, Sarah’s life is a juggling act of responsibilities, a relentless cycle of work, study, and childcare.

The Story of Sarah A.: A glimpse into reality

Sarah, mother of two, dreams of a degree in Law. Every day, she faces the phenomenal task of balancing her job, her studies, and the upbringing of her children, 3-year-old Bianca and 2-year-old Faith. Her story sheds light on the challenges faced by student-working parents.

Financial Struggles: More than just tuition fees

 For Sarah and many others like her, financial strain is a constant reality. Tuition fees, childcare costs, and living expensed pile up, while the income from part-time jobs is often insufficient. Sarah often finds herself choosing between buying textbooks and paying for her children’s needs.

Time Management: A Race Against the Clock

Sarah’s days are a testament to her time management skills. Mornings are dedicated to her children and her job and afternoons are reserved for classes and children and evenings for study. Although having children means that nothing is ever the same everyday Sarah tries to stick with her schedule, but every minute is precious, with no room for wasted time. However, this often comes at the cost personal time and rest, leaving Sarah continuously exhausted.

Guilt and Emotional Stress

 Amidst her busy schedule, Sarah often grapples with guilt – the feeling that she is not doing enough either as a student or a mother. This emotional toll, coupled with the stress of deadlines and exams, often leads to anxiety and a sense of being overwhelmed.

The Impact on Children

While Sarah’s children are her biggest motivators, she worries about the impact of her hectic lifestyle on them. The limited time she has for her children often leaves her feeling like she’s not providing enough quality time or attention.

The Struggles for Academic Success

At university, Sarah faces yet another set of challenges. Keeping up with coursework, participating in group projects, and meeting academic expectations while managing her life outside university is a balancing act that requires immense determination and resilience.

Support Systems: The Key to Survival

Sarah’s story is not just one if struggle but also of resilience. Her journey is made slightly easier by the support she receives from her partner and family, who help with childcare, and her understanding professors. Sarah also speaks how support groups for student-working parents and counselling help her to get through the challenges of balancing children, work, and university.

A Call for Awareness and Support

Sarah’s story is a representation of the lives of countless student-working parent who strive to improve their lives through education while raising a family. Their journey is one of incredible strength and perseverance. It’s a call for educational institutions, policymakers, and society at large to recognise and support these individuals, helping them balance their dual roles more effectively, for the benefit of their families and their futures.

Daniela Carvalho