RealTalkAJ

Going back to school as a single parent takes guts, planning, and a bit of faith in yourself.

Balancing studies with parenting means time becomes your most valuable resource—but the right strategies can make it work.

As someone who graduated early through the College of Lake County while still in high school, I’ve seen how smart decisions early on can open doors later.

And since many in my generation are already parents, I know firsthand that the college experience can be reshaped to fit family life instead of fighting against it.

What advice I would give to a single parent planning on returning to community college

Single parents heading to community college should stay connected on campus, plan early for credit transfers, integrate learning with their child’s interests, and make the most of on-campus career opportunities. Each step builds not just toward a degree—but toward a more sustainable, rewarding college experience that benefits both parent and child.

Stay Involved with Campus Activities

Many community college events are family friendly—picnics, student fairs, cultural festivals, even movie nights.

Staying involved builds a network of support and helps you feel less isolated.

It also introduces your child to the college environment early on, showing them that education is a lifelong pursuit.

Connection is often what keeps single parents from burning out; when you show up for your campus, your campus tends to show up for you.

Figure Out Where You’ll Transfer for Your B.A.—Early

If a bachelor’s degree is part of your long-term goal, research your transfer options as soon as possible.

Not every four-year university accepts all community college credits, and discovering that too late can set you back.

Talk to academic advisors, compare transfer guides, and stay organized.

When I was earning college credits through the College of Lake County during high school, that head start was what allowed me to graduate on time later.

Getting clarity early saves both stress and tuition.

Base Projects Around Your Child’s Interests

If your program includes independent or creative projects, consider shaping them around your child’s world.

For example, a psychology paper on child development can double as insight into your own parenting.

A marketing project could explore products for families.

Aligning coursework with your life as a parent makes learning more meaningful—and your workload, more sustainable.

It’s about letting your roles complement each other instead of compete.

Work with the School for Career Opportunities

Campus jobs, internships, and volunteer roles can do more than help with bills.

They root you deeper in the college community and can lead to professional connections that last beyond graduation.

Being part of the school ecosystem—career center, tutoring programs, student leadership—often pays off in unexpected ways.

The benefits compound: experience, support, and confidence grow together.

Conclusion

Returning to community college as a single parent isn’t just about chasing a diploma—it’s about rewriting what education looks like for your family.

Stay active on campus to build your village. Map your transfer path early so your work counts.

Let your studies reflect your child’s world, and plant yourself deeply in the college’s ecosystem.

Each decision feeds into the next, creating a version of success that fits your life now—and sets the tone for your child’s future too.