Your Mom Goes to College: The Final Chapter

— by Hillary Handy

If you’ve been reading along, you will know that I made the decision to return to academia after a 15-year hiatus. During that season, I was able to explore different avenues of the workforce, including my most rewarding role as a mother. But the time had come for a change, and thus, I pursued more post-secondary education. I am pleased to say that I am finally finished my two-year program. It was a season of growth for me in terms of academic pursuits, but also for time management and navigating the motherly mental load.  

Year two brought about more interesting courses, more laughter, deeper friendships, and (mis)adventures. I was able to make wonderful connections with some amazing humans. I was able to watch a friend get engaged and then see her walk down the aisle. Talk about Momming it…I was verklempt! I was able to participate in two practicum experiences with fantastic mentors. I learned so much during this season and am thankful for the opportunity to grow under the guidance of those ahead of me in the journey. It was also a really affirming time for me, noting that this was the path I was meant to take, in this season. 

I often think back, not with regret, but more a sense of wonder…why didn’t I do this sooner? If only I had this credential sooner…Well, when I do stop to think about it, truly, I realize I was able to stay at home with my children during the pandemic and some crucial, formative years, without the same pressures of having to work outside the home. I was able to work in other spheres like social services and gain that experience that will only better help me out now in this new role. 

But we tend to get caught up in the why, instead of the why not. Why not go back to school now? Why not try a new job? Why not travel to that place you’ve always wanted to go? I used to see my life in five-year chunks. I accomplished my five-year plan, my ten-year, and fifteen…but I didn’t see this part of the plan coming. The Type A gets a little tiring sometimes, so this season was a social experiment for me. Riding the wave, pivoting and trying something new. Why not. 

If there is any wisdom I can impart in you, gentle reader, it is this: You can do hard things. This is a phraseology I hear often in my travels. We try to instill a sense of grit in our children, pushing them to try harder, persevere and work through challenges. I practiced what I preached this year, to be sure. I can do hard things. I did a hard thing. It wasn’t easy going to school full-time, working, caring for children and a household, and trying to be semi-social on occasion. This year also brought some deep loss in our family. It can be a challenge to press on when your world has changed. But I did it. And if I can do it, maybe you can too. If there is something you want to explore, let this be your sign to do it! 

I had so many people encouraging me along the way. Text messages. Checking in. A former teacher of mine from when I was in Grade 3 gifted me their materials and supplies as they wrapped up their journey and mine was just beginning (Hi Terry, I know you’re reading this- a faithful reader!) Let me be your cheerleader, your pseudo-Mom, momming it hard from the sidelines. 

Your Mom went to college. You can, too!