The waters are not always steady

When I made the decision to go back to school I was in my late 30’s. This has been an eye-opening experience for me. I’ve discovered new ways to study and how late Starbuck’s stays open. And, although many nights I’ve fallen asleep with books surrounding my head, this has been the most challenging experience of my life so far because I’ve worked hard for every A and B earned.
I’m not the average student, straight out of high school, with big dreams in the palms of my hands. Instead, I’m the 40 year-old, single-mom who starts off her day at 5 AM, get her children ready and drops them off at school, go to the grocery store, prepare dinner in the crock pot, and arrive at class by 10 AM. It took some time for me to realize that my big dreams were still possible and now here I am at Ursuline. I make it a priority to pick-up my children at least 4 times out of the week, take them to all of their extra-curricular activities, and start my studying when they’re finally asleep by 10 PM. And, in the meantime, some where in-between time, I have to find extra time and money to pay my mortgage each month; although I’m continuously searching for a job, the reality is that I’m over qualified as I change careers. But, I’ve taken a moral stance that I must be available to my children. My options are clear. Let’s remember, I’m a single-mom and there isn’t always someone available to help me out when the kids catch a bad cold and now I’ve been without sleep for 3 days, and I have a final the next.
Going back to school in my late 30’s may not have been easy, but I’ve enjoyed every part of it. I have met some great people, joined organizations with a purpose to help others, and have grown into a more productive part of our humanity. I’ve learned to persevere and come out stronger. And, in keeping with our new blog tradition, I offer you these words from the author, Louisa May Alcott, “I’m not afraid of storms, for I’m learning to sail my ship.” Be sure to hold on and enjoy the ride!

Yours truly,
Kimberley H.