When I applied to Gateway U, I kept asking myself if this was the right time and the right program. I went over how much time I actually had and how much time I had to sacrifice. I was honest about what I wanted from Gateway U ...
Hi, my name is Monet Amos. I am a hardworking and loving mom, a Healthcare Management major, and a proud Gateway U student. I learned about Gateway U through my daughter's school. A flyer came home and read, "Are you interested in getting your college degree?". This is something that I've been thinking about doing for some time, so I joined the zoom call, met with their team, and applied the next day! When I got the email saying that I got in I was so happy! I was one step closer to getting my degree, one step closer to creating a better me, and one step closer to creating a better life for my daughter. Shortly after I started my coursework, I got into a car accident and was hospitalized. Gateway U never abandoned me. Instead, my coach regularly checked on me to see if my daughter or I needed anything. Though I had the support of my family, it felt really good to have my school check on me. I think as moms we are usually the ones fixing everyone's problems. We are the ones who check on our loved ones when they are hurt. We are the ones calling our children's schools to make sure they have everything they need.
To the "Do Everything" Moms, here are 3 tips that helped me when I decided to go back to school, and I hope they help you!
When I applied to Gateway U, I kept asking myself if this was the right time and the right program. I went over how much time I actually had and how much time I had to sacrifice. I was honest about what I wanted from Gateway U, my coaches, my family, and myself. By being honest about my wants and needs, I was able to create a schedule and boundaries to focus on my bigger goal of getting my degree.
After speaking with Gateway U, I went to the SNHU website to make sure this program was legit. I learned that they were not only accredited but they were accredited by the same people who accredited Harvard University! That meant a lot to me. I also listened to testimonials on Youtube and TikTok. I was able to get the good, the not-so-good, and the in-between. From what I learned, I was able to gain clarity, get my questions answered and make the best decision for my daughter and me.
Being a full-time student, a parent, and a full-time working adult can be stressful and sometimes overwhelming, especially if you are doing it alone. My advice is to try going for a walk once a week, doing your favorite hobby, or just sitting in silence for a couple of minutes. My coach Karen has been really helpful in helping me plan some "me time" in the midst of being a mom and it's been working.
Be on the lookout for my next student story. It will read: Dear “Do Everything” Moms: A Guide to Graduating College - because I did it and you can too!