Wife, Mother, and Student

Do you ever wonder what it's like to be a parent while studying? During my time at Solent University, I have came across at least three parents who enrol at the University. Some already have kids and are happily married. Some are single parents and have just given birth to their firstborn. Solent University tries its best to help student parents. Either way, I find it challenging to balance my own life, and I don't even have kids. Today, we'll focus on Carmel; she is a wife, mother, and student. Carmel has created this series of images to give people an insight into what it's like to balance her responsibilities.

Carmel suggests, "it isn't always easy." Despite how people see her as an assertive and organised person. Therefore, this is quite surprising for me because she is our student rep. So naturally, she is our mother too. She would help us communicate with our lecturers and the University to see how we can improve our university experience despite how a viral virus has taken that away from us.

Nevertheless, Carmel will sometimes have her child on her knee, and other times she has to stay up late at night trying to get her work done and be summited on time. Although, I never really have the experience of being a parent. However, I have talked to many parents of all ages. They are always talking about how proud they are of their kids. Moreover, this motivates them to get out of bed and travel to work every day.

Carmel also added, "often, I only get time to be with my husband if we both sit down with our work set up and we will do it together… in silence" This is one of the many beauties of a relationship. My grandmother just passed away not long ago. My granddad said he doesn't miss doing things with my grandmother. He missed doing nothing with her. Just having her in his presence was fulfilling enough. Therefore, I think Carmel has found a perfect match.

Being a parent and a student at the same time might be complicated. But I'm pretty sure it made people like Carmel stronger every day. and if I were one of her kids, I would be proud and look up to her. So, if you're afraid to start something new and you have too many things in your hand. Just remember, 'life can be tough, but so are you.'

Written, Edited, and Published by Krisana Polyotha

BA (Hons) Media Production

Solent Media

Click here to see what it's like to be a 'Mother, Wife, Student.'