I have been trying to figure out a way to "survive" while going back to college. I mean, yes, I wil have to work part-time. But, I deffinitely want to go to school Fulltime, because I want to finish as soon as possible. Is anyone else doing this? Any advice?

Thanks!!
Heather

Me!!! and Idont know how Im going to do it either!!!

Im going back to do my PHD in Autistic Studies, I work part time, have Conor at home, he has just started Secondary SHcool (High School) Im keeping a long distance eye on Tadhg) he is in University across the country. Both have ASD issues, I also work Saturdays and look after my Mother.

Like you I better not sneeze or Im afraid the whole pack of cards will fall down

Do you mean survive financially, time wise, fa mily wise or all three?

Good luck in your studies

Anne

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"When we know better we do better" Maya Angelou

Hi Anne!!

It's so good to meet someone that is actually "doing" this. I meant survive financially. I mean, to pay a mortgage, keep food on the table, and be able to go to school. Again, I expect to work part-time but after having the same fulltime job for about 6yrs now, I just KNOW working fulltime and going to school will not work for me. I am not willing to give up any more of my "family" time than I do right now. In fact, I'm hoping I might be able to have a bit more. I know there are grants, which hopefully I can recieve. Along with school loans........is there any kind of "living" loans(or grants) out there? This is going to be a HUGE change for me. I'm scared to death. But, I just can't live paycheck to paycheck as we have been. I have aged tremendously and the only way I see out, is to finish my education in order to find a better job.

You are accomplishing ALOT! You should be so proud. I thought it was going to be hard just working, going to school, and raising my son....I can't imagine how you are able to take on all you do!

I know life in America vs life in Ireland is quite different maybe we could trade ideas or support each other when its starts raining down deadlines either for payments we have to juggle or educational deadlines we have to meet.

WIth this kind of schedule we both seem to have a real social life will probably have to go out the window. But one thing Ive learned is that you will need some form of time out with friends to keep your sanity so think about that aspect.

Finance wise Ive eliminated ever extra things I want an dont need if youu get the picture (I describe myself as a spendahollic in a straight jacket). I will have to get through the next 18mths and still give Conor a life, and be a financial back up for Tadhg.

He gets a grant but he hasnt got it yet, James wont contibute any extra to Tadhgs living expenses and he hasnt got a part time job yet. His College Course is intensive, 5 days a week and classes 9-5pm or 10-7pm so it doesnt really leave much room for a part time job or his Course work will suffer and he will lose his grant.

I think I work harder at my course than I do any other part of my life. Conor is at school whiile Im in class, and is home an hour before me when I work. I dont want to spend any more time away from him than I have to considering 13yrs olds have a busy enough schedule .

I know Im going to take to my bed for a year when all this is done in 18mths time:D

Id love some ideas from you on how your manage you day and keep your bills low. Petrol for the car, Home Heating and Electricity bills are going to be outragous here this year!

Big Hugs

Anne

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"When we know better we do better" Maya Angelou