Subscribe

Get updates by:
facebook
facebook
Twitter
Twitter
RSS
RSS
Email
Email

Email us:

This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
New Here?
1) Start Here
2) Get College Advice
3) Join the community:

Textbook Recommendations

Renting: Chegg.com
Buying: Amazon.com
Downloading: CourseSmart

Also check current textbook coupon codes.

Selling? Get a Quote Now

Going to college when you have family responsibilities

PDF Print E-mail

College is a huge responsibility and a lot of work. For some students, college is an additional responsibility as they may have family to tend to at home. It is hard to attend classes, study and be active on campus when you have children and/or a spouse that requires your attention as well. There are ways to add college into your daily juggles. No longer do you have to put college off because of your family.

Online Classes

The most common type of classes for many with families are online classes. These are classes that are taught primarily on online. Students can log on and complete coursework, forum discussions and other class tasks at their leisure. These classes do require more discipline though as in some cases you are teaching yourself the coursework. You really cannot let the work pile up as it is easy to be fall behind, which can result in a lower grade.

Search for Online Classes

Weekend School

Some students work full time jobs in addition to having a family and colleges have noticed. Some colleges have weekend school, where you attend classes on Saturdays and/or Sundays for a few hours. This is perfect for students who cannot make the commitment to come to campus during the week.

On-Campus Daycare

Some colleges have on campus daycare facilities available for students with young children. This way students can attend classes during the traditional times and bring their children with them to campus. The rates for childcare are usually reduced so that they are affordable to students.

Other Tips

  • Organize your time. With so many responsibilities, it is best to be organized so that nothing slips through the cracks. Develop a routine and keep track of all appointments, classes, and homework assignments.

  • Do not overwhelm yourself. It can be tempting to try to rush and complete your degree faster, however it can be stressful if you take on too many classes in addition to your responsibilities at home. Your grades can suffer or even worse your family. Make sure to balance your attention among all your responsibilities.

  • Family First. Family always comes first so if you see that your family life is suffering because of your schooling, then maybe you should cut back on a class or two. Or, try to study when everyone is in bed rather than when you could be spending time with family. Your classes should be a part of your life but they should not take away time from your family.

It is extremely hard trying to complete school and still handle family responsibilities. Sometimes it comes down to taking a final or going to your child’s soccer game. Try to avoid situations like these in advance by planning your college classes around your family duties. This way your family will not feel like they are being neglected and your grades will not suffer. Completing your degree is a very rewarding experience, but not at the expense of your family responsibilities.

 
Share it:
facebook
Twitter
Delicious
Reddit
Stumble

Access more useful college info:

Enter your email address to get more tips by email.


On Facebook? Like Us

Get College Tips by Email:

Upcoming Articles:

  • Most Expensive College Dorms
  • The 100 Greatest College Traditions
  • Banned College Traditions
To get these, subscribe by email.

Reader Testimonials
“I like the articles that are written here. There are plenty of other blogs that cover being frugal as a student, but you cover stuff that other places don't.” - Sarah E., USC

"I like the fact that you’re actually offering interesting, useful information to students." - Pedro M., Harvard

In the News:

Press

Learning Online

Access select online programs:

I am interested in studying

College Guides

College Admissions
Paying for College
Degree Guide
Textbooks
College Life
Study Tips

Compare Student Loan Rates

Student
Parent
Graduation:
Loan Amount:
$