AIBU to become a full time student :-/

[MissDuke]

I currently work part time, in a secure, flexible and relatively well paid job - but it is incredibly boring. I never meant to end up in the civil service, but it seemed like a good move when I was getting married. I have been there for 10 years and have worked my way up and built a fairly good career.

A few years ago I decided to persue my dream career, so I did an access course. I had my 3rd child during that course so waited a year before applying to uni. The course I applied to is incredibly hard to get into and I can only apply to one uni, so really it was a practice run.

However, much to my shock, I got a place.

My hubby is delighted for me, but my family think I am crazy. My older children will be in school, but my littlest will go to my parents 3 days and a childminder 2 days. I feel so guilty about leaving her, especially when my mum said she wishes she could take her full time as she hates the thoughts of her going to a childminder :-(

They think I am doing the wrong thing by my kiddies. I am so torn. I asked the uni to defer, but they said no, which I expected. I have managed to get work to agree to 6 months unpaid leave, so I have until January to make a definite decision on leaving there.

AIBU to my children by giving this a go? :-(

Don't think so!

How old are they and how long is the course?

Kiddies are almost 9, 5, and the littlest is only 1.5.

Course is for 3 years.

I'd do it. In fact, if I get into uni next year will be. Although my dc are both school age, the course I want involves shift work incl weekends and evenings.

Good luck!

Do it! Your oldest are in school anyway and it's your dream job. Lots of children have daycare. You'll regret it if you don't.

I'm also going back to Uni in September! So excited!

My course also involves weekends etc, it is midwifery.

Thanks everyone! Good luck with it all Sianilaa!

I had a feeling it would be op, well done on getting it! I applied for 2 unis but was unsuccessful at them all :(

Hi OP, I've gone back to Uni, in Jan 2013, to do an MA in social work and its a two year course. I've got a little one who's two and although this means she goes to nursery full time - i still feel like I've made the right decision. I'm really enjoying the course and feel like I'm doing well too. I think doing a job you'll be very happy in is important x

Does the university in question have a nursery attached? Mine did, and it proved a godsend- I was able to dash over and peer through the window or the fence, see my baby happily playing in the sand or dancing at the top of the slide, and go on to the next lecture with a light heart.

I'd not send a baby that young to a childminder.