I am a 23-year-old single mother with a full-time and part-time job. I’m also a member of the military reserves. Each job is necessary for me to pay just the basic bills. I really want to go back to school full time but don’t have any support. I unsuccessfully tried online classes. I took traditional classes but had to quit due to money issues. How do I maintain my finances and still get an education?
–J. Johnson, Via the Internet
While I commend you for wanting more, you are stretching yourself too thin. Identify people and resources that can help steady your pace.
Reach out to the National Organization of Single Mothers Inc. (www.single mothers.org), a nonprofit that can help you find resources and a local support group.
School is doable, but the challenge is finding time to commit. Research local government programs providing childcare. Contact the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Administration for Children and Families (www.acf. hhs.gov) to learn about programs such as Head Start that provide childcare to low-income children.
Apply for Federal Student Aid (www.fafsa.ed.gov) to determine your eligibility for grants and loans. And check for scholarships in your state and on a national level, specifically for single mothers. Also, log on to www.further youreducation.com, a free Website sponsored by American Education Services offering information for nontraditional students.