What skills have you gained, being a mum?

[lowrib]

I'm writing an application form for a degree course.

I first applied before I had my baby and I got in, but didn't go because I was busy being a new mum.

I'm now reapplying, and although my application is basically the same, I want to say something about what I've been up to since they last heard from me, and what being a mum has taught me.

So far so good.

But now I'm stuck! What have I learnt exactly? I'm definitely much more organised than I was, but that doesn't take up a whole paragraph!

Other things things I have learnt? ... ummm ...I can smell a pooey nappy at 20 paces now! I can can make a crying baby laugh in about 0.25 seconds simply by turning him upside down (well, sometimes!) ... but not really sure that's exactly what they're looking for

So, oh wise mums, what have we learnt that might help with studying for a degree course? I'm sure there's something there, I just need to phrase it right!

TIA

How about:

A bit about what skills you feel you've honed since having a child ie:
prioritising, multi-tasking, organising (oops, sorry you've said that), listening, able to deal with stress

What course are you applying for?

Maybe a bit about how your views on things may have changed, how having a child has made you realise why you want to apply for this course, how motivated you are to achieve this for yourself and your family (blah, blah), what has recenty inspired you to apply again etc.

Sorry, this is a bit rushed and is right off the top of my head. I'd also use a thesaurus to get some other suggestions. If I think of anything useful I'll post again.

Good luck

Thanks Mummyisamonster!

It's a web design course I'm applying for. It's a BA rather than a BSc though - it's based in the computing department, but focuses a bit more on the creative side rather than just programming etc.

I used to be a Lecturer. What they will be looking for is dedication (and the ability to pass of course!), they absolutely do not want someone who will start the course and not complete it, or has no chance of passing.

The fact that you got accepted previously is a very good start. The fact that you deferred because of your priorities with your new baby, I feel is also a good start, it shows that you are taking the course seriously and want to see it through and do well. You can highlight the fact that you have established routines that will allow you to attend university whilst balancing family life at the same time.

In terms of skills you have learned as a Mum, they seem to be covered already.

Good luck, sounds as if you have nothing to worry about!

empathy, compassion, multi-tasking, i can cook better, i manage my time more effectively as in not just organising, but i waste less time, i use my time more productively and value it more. I have better social skills as being on maternity leave means I have had to work harder to meet new people/new mothers and as DD grew older i have had to work harder to meet people with other toddlers for her to socialise with. I can manage my money better, so better financial skills, as i have had less money with which to buy more things. I have more patience and more tolerance for things not going my own way, for things not going according to plan, and am better and changing plans, doing things differently than expected, recognising that things do not always work how how i intended and working with what I have. Much more able to work in a team as I have been forced to work with DH in regards to discipline, organising workloads/housework/employment hours/childcare etc.

How is that?

Wow PavlobtheCat thanks, that's great!

tellyaddict that's very reassuring, thanks very much!