Congratulations on making the wise yet difficult decision to continue your studies, momma! It’s a tough decision considering you have a little human who depends on you for oh-so-many things. But the results will be worth every hassle you go through. 

But the big question is: are you ready for grad school? 

Graduate school is no joke. It’s synonymous with caffeinated nights, late-night studying, and a lot of research. Many students drop out because they fall behind on their coursework or expect someone else to pave the way for them. 

As a mom, you already have tons on your plate. So, if you’re worried about how you’ll survive and succeed in grad school, we have some helpful tips. These will help you cross the finish line. Scroll to read more.

Familiarize Yourself with Your Department’s and Degree Requirements

Do you know what you're getting into? No? Well, you should. Familiarizing yourself with your institute's rules and regulations, course guidelines, and academic calendar is the first step toward success. Understand the expectations of your professors and department, so you can make informed decisions that will benefit you in the long run.

Also, different degree programs require different levels of commitment and effort, so make sure you're ready for what you've signed up for. It’ll help you allocate your resources properly and manage your time. As a mom, you’ve already got your hands full, so time management is crucial for success. For instance, you should know that MSW degree programs typically require intensive research and dedication. You might even have to participate in social work activities for field experience and learn how to deal with clients from diverse backgrounds. Of course, if you’ve always had a passion for helping people, an MSW degree will prepare you for a fulfilling journey ahead. Nevertheless, when you’ve got tantrums to handle and manage your kids’ education alongside your own, it would be best to know what you’re getting yourself into. 

Establish a Healthy Work-Life Balance

While putting in long hours and sacrificing sleep might seem like the way to make it through grad school, it's essential to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Burning the midnight oil day in, day out will only hamper your academic performance. Allocate specific time blocks for studying, research, and other academic commitments. Also, carve out time for relaxation, hobbies, and social activities. Speak to your partner or any other family member about your academic pursuits and seek help when and where needed. Perhaps your partner could take the kids out while you relax, or you could drop them off at granny’s for a day or two. 

Set Realistic Goals 

We get it; you want to hit all the milestones and pass with flying colors. That's admirable! But graduate school isn't about getting from point A to point B right away. It's about the journey and what you learn along the way. The best way to get where you want to is by setting achievable and realistic goals. 

Here's how:

• Divide your long-term objectives into smaller, manageable goals. 

• Do one assignment at a time instead of cramming them all in one night.

• Aim to get 8 hours of sleep every day. 

• Break up studying and research work with recreational activities. 

Also, reward yourself after meeting your milestones to stay motivated. It could be a small treat, like binge-watching your favorite show or spending time with your kids doing crafts. 

Become Best Friends with Your Advisor

Do you know which alliance will bear the sweetest fruits through grad school? The one you form with your advisor. Trust us! This person is your North Star, that'll guide you through the murky waters of endless assignments, exams, and research projects. 

Your advisor will be the person who'll help you navigate through any issues you might have with your coursework or department. Plus, they may even help you land a job after graduation! So, stay in touch with them. Discuss your progress, seek advice, and soak up your academic advisor's wisdom like a thirsty sponge. Share your deepest academic fears with them. It's okay to be vulnerable! 

Always Be Ready with Your Thesis Topic Options

Eventually, you'll have to write a thesis. It's one of the most dreaded parts of grad school, and most students tend to procrastinate a lot with this. But the sooner you have your topic options ready, the better! So, keep a file of things that interest you. You might find a theme in whatever you've saved in the file. 

It's also important to remember that your thesis topic doesn't have to change the world. Even if something simple is presented beautifully, you'll have fulfilled your major requirement. Also, avoid longitudinal study topics if you're low on time. 

Learn to Write at a Graduate Level

Graduate-level writing isn't a walk in the park. But it's one of the most important skills you'll gain through your degree. Excellent communication skills will help you get better grades, research grants, and even job opportunities from top employers! 

So don't take this skill lightly. Research what constitutes graduate-level writing and practice it regularly. It could be anything from thesis construction to learning how to edit and proofread. Your writing should reflect your critical thinking, analysis, and capacity to engage in complex conversations. 

Your Committee Members Will Make a Difference

You might not think much about your committee members, but they can make or break your academic future. They'll be the people that decide whether to accept or reject your research paper or project. It's crucial to form a solid relationship with them and let them know what you're capable of. Understand their expectations from dissertations and their working styles. 

Connect With Your Peers and Faculty

Peer networking is a great way to stay ahead of the competition. Discussing research ideas with peers in academic circles gives you an understanding of how different departments approach problem-solving. It also helps form professional relationships that may drive career opportunities after graduation.

The same goes for connecting with faculty members. Build strong relationships with your professors and supervisors, and you'll find yourself in the perfect situation to receive preferential treatment when it comes to job offers, recommendations, or internships. 

Final Thoughts

Graduate school is intense. Sometimes you'll feel overwhelmed and ready to give up, but hold on tight. Stay focused and determined, and you'll make it through. Make sure your family or friends understand the gravity of your graduate studies so that they can support you in achieving your goals. If you have a newborn or a toddler, you could even consider hiring help.

Through everything, remember you're running a marathon, not a sprint. You'll need grit, perseverance, and an unyielding will to fight against the odds. But trust us, the view from the finish line will be worth all the sweat and tears. Good luck.

Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.