Admissionly, being a single mom is one of the most challenging occupations in the world. You do not only have a hat; you are the cook, the bread-winner, the nurse, the teacher, and even the superhero who can get things running where it seems that nothing can.
Then there is the silent longing that follows, the longing that is so profound, so intense, I want to go back to school. I desire better than that of me and my kids.
It is not about egocentrism of power, it is about building a better future. A place where your bills do not always pursue you, so you can see your children bragging, That is my mom, she did.
However, when you begin to think about tuition fees, childcare, textbooks, time and so on, it become a mountain too high to climb, right?
Oh, the good news is you are not alone, and there are some people who can help you.
Single moms have scholarships that are specifically designed to help them juggle education and life in its madness. The programs are developed by individuals who know how the combination of classes and diaper change or night shift feels.
The point is, that today we will discuss some of the most effective scholarships available to single moms returning to school, and how you can finally have that dream degree coming true without bankrupting yourself.
Best Scholarships for Single Moms Going Back to School
When people hear the word “scholarship,” they often think of straight-A students or fresh high school graduates. But let me tell you, the scholarship world has changed.
There are dozens of programs out there designed just for single mothers who want a second chance at education.
Here are some of the best ones you should know about:
1. Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation Scholarship
This is named after Patsy Mink – the first woman of color to make it to congress. She was a single mother herself, and she had experienced what it was like.
The foundation provides up to $5000 to enable low-income mothers to further their education. The reason my favorite aspect of this scholarship is that it is so personal, they actually want to hear your story.
There is nothing to fear about sharing your story so tell about your experience, your sacrifice, your hopes, and what education would help you out of.
2. Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award.
This scholarship has transformed thousands of lives of women. It is not only about tuition; it assists in living costs and books and childcare.
This award was created in case of you being one of those who went through hard times but do not want to give up.
Indeed, most of the winners of the Soroptimist Award are women who were in the minimum wage jobs but ended up running their own enterprises or completing nursing schools.
3. Jeannette Rankin Women Scholarship.
Jeannette Rankin thought that the principles of freedom were in education. This scholarship is offered to women aged above 35 years studying their first degree.
And in case you have not been in school years and you are afraid of starting over again, this one is for you
4. Women’s Independence Scholarship Program (WISP)
This one is especially for single mothers who are survivors of domestic abuse. It doesn’t just provide financial aid; it gives women a fresh start.
Imagine finally being able to study and rebuild your life without fear, that’s what WISP helps women do.
5. P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education (PCE)
If you had to pause school because life happened, maybe you got pregnant, got divorced, or had to take care of your family, P.E.O. gives you a chance to pick up where you left off.
They offer up to $3,000 in grants to help women finish their education.
Now, here’s a small truth: most single moms don’t even know half of these opportunities exist.
Every year, thousands of scholarships go unused because people simply don’t apply.
So if you’re reading this, don’t talk yourself out of it. Apply. Even if you think you won’t win, apply anyway. Your story might be the one that moves someone to say, “Yes, she deserves this.”
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How to Balance School, Kids, and Work as a Single Mom
It is time to be honest, though, because the world is not magically easy with the help of scholarships. It is not easy to go back to school as a single mom. But it’s not impossible.
It requires you to smarten up about balance.
This is what has succeeded with a number of single moms:
1. Set Realistic Goals
Don’t try to do it all at once. There is no one to compete with. That is fine, should you only be able to take one or two courses per semester. Progress is still progress.
2. Build a Support System
Your tribe, make friends, family, neighbors, and even online mom groups.
There are times when you simply need someone to babysit the children for a couple of hours or even place a phone call in the middle of your study panic when you have an exam in 2 hours.
3. Create a Flexible Routine
Morning chaos? Then study at night. Kids napping? That’s your golden hour.
You do not need an ideal schedule, it has to suit you.
4. Take advantage of Campus and Internet facilities.
Most schools are providing childcare programs, single parent support groups and even flexible online courses. Don’t hesitate to ask for help. You paid for these kind of services, make use of them!
5. Take Care of Yourself
You can never pour out of a dry cup.
Rest when you need, eat right and have some mental rest. Peace, even five minutes of it, can re-set your mind. Keep in mind, it is not only about getting a degree, but also rebuilding you.
Conclusion
It takes just being a single mom to realize that you are stronger than you may imagine. Things that would cripple others have already challenged you and here you are, considering education, development, and a brighter future.
Scholarships to single moms do not exist as mere financial support, they are beacons of hope. They remind you that you are noticed, encouraged and deserve to be invested in.
So take that step. Apply. Begin with little, however little.
This is because when you are at the end of the day, your children will not only recall that mom went to school, but they will also recall that mom did not give up.
So, why not, believe me, what is holding you back today in pursuing your dream?