Do I need to drop out of uni?

[fiberglassspacecadet]

Without going into detail I had to work a lot harder than most people to get into university. I never thought I would manage it but alas in September I started the degree I've always wanted to do and I was over the moon.

However, I then found out I was pregnant, my boyfriend left me, I got a job and started working any hours I could get in order to be able to look after the child, and I have completely neglected my studies.

I have handed in no work, I stopped going to lectures, I haven't been in contact with anybody at the university to explain my situation. And now I'm wondering should I just drop out? It's the last thing I want to do.

I've since found out as a student with a child you get extra help with loans etc and I've heard being a student is one of the best things for a single mother to be as financially you are well supported and you are working towards a future simultaneously.

I am desperate to keep studying but am I now going to get kicked out for neglecting my studies so much? Should I just drop out? I really don't want to but don't see another way out of this mess I've created. What do I do?

Speak to the university. Check up the loan position and what you may be able to get. Don’t expect it to be much. Ask if you can repeat the year. Be sensible about what you can realistically do.

Is suspending your studies an option? Until you feel you will be able to cope?

I’m not sure how it works though - my uni only allows suspension until the next uni year so August/September.
You really need to talk to someone from uni and find out your options before you withdraw from studies.

It’s not financially that good btw.

You need to access the help available to you. So speak to your pastoral care at the uni and see what can and needs to be done.
Continue your studies - what other useful alternative is there?
Things have not gone to plan and this wont be the last time that's the case. Dont worry, you can get back on track.
You can do this 🖒👍

Go and speak to student support. You might be able to catch up, resit modules or defer for a period of time.
Don’t just drop out. There are other options.

You've missed essentially 1 semester so you need to act now tp get this sorted, not let it drag on.

Where do you live? Eg Halls or family or private? When are you due? Will the father help you?

Speak to pastoral care or your lead tutor etc. Make it clear to ex he will have to provide some support financially - does he work?

Go back to the Uni and ask for all their support and advice

You need to share with someone that you are in this situation

Secondly, if you are working have you informed them that you are pregnant ? Will you be eligible for maternity pay ?

There may be other benefits that you are eligible for

The Uni may have a free creche too