I’m a mom and I go to college, but you would have never known if I didn’t tell you.

When people find out, it’s the same questions:

“Where is she while you’re in class?”

“You have a child? Where is she?”

Or it’s arbitrary comments like, “Wow, you look great for having a child.”

Like many other kids whose parents work full time jobs, Evelyn goes to daycare  – because, yes, juggling 15 credit hours, designing The Shield, working for Housing and Residence Life and freelancing for several clients constitutes a full time job.

I’ve been lucky to have her dad, as well as our families, to help care for her when I’m in a night class or when I have to work late.

The light at the end of my academic tunnel, however, is Saturday in the Physical Activities Center when I walk across that stage and am handed my diploma.

People often say, “I don’t know how you do it. I can barely go to school and take care of myself.”

You’d be surprised how little a dependent can put you behind in school when it’s also the one motivator for a better life: a better job, more free time and life without financial worry.

To keep my crazy dream of better things a reality, I worked extremely hard.

I can’t express how thankful I am for attending a university that truly gave me a chance.

No, moms don’t get any special absence privileges or easier tests, but USI allowed me to get involved conveniently on campus and meet some of the best friends I’ll ever have.

Because of on-campus employment at HRL and The Shield, I’ve gotten real, professional experience in my field as a graphic designer and a leg up on my competition.

I may have an extra mouth to feed and a realm of responsibility that seems terrifying, but after my four years here, my resume is filled to the brim and I have someone who will be immensely proud of me one day.

I urge anyone struggling with some sort of adversity to keep going.

You have no idea how much you inspire the ones around you, and it will feel incredible when you’re done.