When I discovered I was pregnant, I realized that my carefree college days were about to shift dramatically. Those nights filled with late-night parties and carefree fun were about to be replaced by sleepless nights and diaper changes. While I thought I was prepared with my knowledge about breastfeeding and baby care, nothing could truly prepare me for the unique journey of motherhood while navigating college life.
1. Expect to Face Judgment
You might have brushed off the sideways glances when you strolled into class late, but the real scrutiny begins when you walk in visibly pregnant. Some professors may not handle your new status with grace, and you may find yourself on the receiving end of unwarranted comments. Embrace the challenge and develop a tough skin; motherhood invites a whole new level of judgment.
2. Germ Anxiety Becomes Real
With finals looming and a newborn at home, the last thing you want is for your little one to catch a cold. You’ll transform into a germaphobe, insisting that friends strip off their shoes and coats before entering your space, while handing them hand sanitizer like it’s candy. Every precaution feels necessary to keep your baby safe.
3. Breastfeeding Becomes Your Expertise
You will become an encyclopedia of breastfeeding knowledge. If someone near you is upset, you might even find yourself Googling whether adult tears can trigger a lactation response. The anxiety of balancing schoolwork and motherhood will lead you to unexpected places of research.
4. Sleep? What’s That?
Forget the concept of a full night’s sleep. When you’re juggling classes and late-night feedings, you’ll quickly realize that you can’t miss something you never really had. This exhausting reality becomes your new normal.
5. Your Baby Will Be a Genius
In your scarce moments of study time, you’ll be tempted to forgo lullabies for lessons. Instead of singing “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star,” you might find yourself reciting economics principles or the Pythagorean theorem to lull your baby to sleep. Perhaps your child will grow up to understand the intricacies of fiscal policy before they can even talk!
6. You Don’t Fit Into a Single Category
As a student and a mom, you’ll find it challenging to categorize yourself. Articles might label you as a working mom or a stay-at-home mom, but you’ll exist somewhere in between. You’re a Not-Working-But-Not-Stay-at-Home-Mom-Who-Goes-to-Class—embracing the chaos of both worlds.
7. You Discover Unconditional Love
Your perception of love will shift dramatically. While you might have thought your friendships and crushes were deep, the love you feel for your baby is unlike anything else. This profound connection will remind you why you’re pursuing your education and inspire you to create a better life for your family.
Becoming a mother in college has presented its fair share of challenges, but it has also been an exhilarating journey. My unexpected adventure with my daughter has taught me invaluable lessons that extend beyond the classroom. For anyone considering parenthood and education, resources like Cleveland Clinic’s podcast on IVF and fertility preservation or information on home insemination can provide helpful insights. Check out this post for more on this journey, or explore Make a Mom’s guide to artificial insemination for additional support.
Summary:
Becoming a mom while in college brings about significant changes, from facing judgment and developing germ phobias to mastering breastfeeding and navigating sleep deprivation. You’ll find your identity in a blend of roles and discover a newfound understanding of love. This unique journey can be challenging but ultimately rewarding, with invaluable lessons learned along the way.