AIBU to find studying with children so hard

[mummabearjustgotfierce]

Hi have read a couple of threads the past few days about studying when older/with children/distance learning etc. Im in my second year of Uni, just a normal university, not a particularly good or bad, just average. I got a first in my first year, have done well in my coursework this year. Im studying LLB law which is very competitive. I have 2 DD, one of which is disabled, although she has improved in the last year and a 3 year old. It's been so tiring and tough and I constantly feel drained all the time, although I am really enjoying the course sometimes it just feels like everything else is just to much. Do I stick at it? I really want to, its just some of the threads recently seem to say if you don't go to a great university your degree isn't worth much, or if you have a family a career in law isn't compatible, which is ultimately what I want to do- to be a barrister or solicitor. Just I'm struggling at the moment with family/uni balance and I just hoped when I graduate it would let up, even just a little bit.

[TrollTheRespawnJeremy]

It's so tiring. You need to stick at it if you enjoy it but good grief I am tired.

I'd agree that family & a career in law is very very difficult. Although a degree in law can also open up doors to other related professions that aren't so time consuming.

[Rixera]

It is tiring, looking after children full stop is tiring, let alone working at something else too, particularly something that needs brainpower like studying.

Just depends on if its worth it to you, and will get you to where you want to be eventually.

[Allthebestnamesareused]

Yes it is tiring but worth it. I did it when DS was born to age 4 including LPC. Do make sure thst you apply for training contracts as early as possible as it is possible you could get the firm to find your LPC.

[Leanin15yearsmaybe]

Bloody hard! I worked in legal (did uni before kids) and didn't find working in the field too difficult when I had them. It was actually excellent for family friendly hours. Then decided on a career change and went back to uni with 2 young children. Hardest 3 years of my life!!! It does get better though when you qualify, so please do stick it out, it will be worth it in the long run.

And as far as universities impacting on 'quality of degree' in terms of job opportunities, I have never had to disclose on application forms or during interviews where I studied for either degree. A first is a first is a first . Well done you on your achievements so far

[EstrellaCircusGirl]

I feel your pain! I work four days a week, am studying towards a degree part time (0.5 FTE), have a toddler and another due during this academic year! Most people think I'm mad to be doing it all at once but if I don't do it now, I never will. Most of my studying takes place once my DS has gone to bed though.

Regardless of where you study and whether or not you will be able to go into/stay in your chosen profession at the end, your degree will be a reward for your commitment and dedication. There are many careers which will utilise your skills and knowledge, and many employers who will be more impressed by your ability to multi-task as you are doing, than by a young graduate who partied their way through a great university at their parents' expense (I appreciate this is certainly not all students).

Good luck! You're setting a fantastic example to your kids too.

[BardyMum]

Cheering you on too over here.
My law degree is useful even though I don't practice law. Keep on keeping on it will be so worth it whatever you ultimately end up doing and you have come this far now.

[RedStripeIassie]

I've got no idea how you and any Mum's with dependent children do it. I did a course (not even degree level) before having children and I'm still in awe of all the amazing mums who made it through. I couldn't do it

[mummabearjustgotfierce]

Thank you everyone! I know I should stick at it and I want to stick at it, its just so bloody hard sometimes! I did my A levels whilst pregnant with first DD and that was hard but this just seems brutal at times. All my time in the day is took up with university and then in the evening when I go to bed all my evening 6 days a week is took up with study. Just seems to be such a huge commitment and don't want it all to be for nothing if ultimately its not compatible with having a family

[Leanin15yearsmaybe]

I had one day off uni a week and booked the dcs into childcare so I could study 8am-5pm solidly. My dm also had them for the odd overnighter during dissertation. Is there anyone that could have them for you to free up a bit of study time? If I'm honest I took the odd sick day too. We got our lectures published on line beforehand so I would look to see what was being covered/who the lecturer was and sometimes used a bit of adult discretion as to where my time would be best spent

[user1468539146]

I'm in my 3rd year at uni with 3 children and I'm a single parent.
It's incredibly tough, especially this year when I'm out on pavement a lot.
I am determined to complete my degree though, as it will be worth it. Plus I feel I'm showing my children a good example of what can be achieved with effort and commitment.
Good luck op.

[user1468539146]

Placement, not pavement!