Student-Parents at CSUN,

Being a full-time student can be extremely challenging at times.  Now, include a child or two, or in my case three.  You read it right, three.  Some may think that’s crazy, but with the current job struggle and economic crisis many people are finding themselves in this same situation.

If you’re a student who’s also on this mission, I’m here to say you’re not alone.  The goal can be accomplished even though circumstances sometimes make it seem impossible.  After five years of college, I’m now a senior and approaching the finish line.

There are limited facts indicating how many student-parents there actually are attending college.  However, when talking to classmates the growing population of us is clearly evident.  I haven’t been in one class in which I was the only parent.  I’ve also found that many of us have had similar problems and have felt there wasn’t anyone to turn to.

It’s unfortunate that there aren’t many Web sites or blogs dedicated to college students with children.  Therefore, I’ve decided to use this column that will be published on Wednesdays to provide helpful tips and resolutions to common problems for the student–parent.  This will hopefully help them to endure a more rewarding and less stressful college experience.

First, never be afraid to ask for help.  Whether it’s your wife/husband, family members, friends, professors, school or social services.  You’d be surprised at how much support there is as long as you’re willing to ask for it.

“It’s very important to stay humble and ask for help from your significant other or parents,” said 23-year-old Ashley Erikson, full-time English major, worker, and mother to a 15-month-old boy. “They have to understand that you are bettering yourself and your child’s future, and be willing to pick up on the household slack that starts to evolve.”

At times it can feel like the whole world is weighing down on you.  Therefore, asking for help is something that one should never be ashamed of.

Michelle Verne
Staff Reporter