Katie P.
Communication Degree Program, Strategic Communication
"This year has brought a lot of firsts for my family. One of the biggest changes is that my son started daycare after I began working at UMSL. I’m part of the Center for Character and Citizenship, so when he asks where I’m going in the morning, I tell him, “Mommy is going to work to help teachers today.” Now, he proudly tells others, “Mommy helps teachers.” As a student, I’ve had to make some sacrifices—mostly sleep and downtime—to keep up with everything. Most nights you’ll find me doing homework after his bedtime, and on weekends, my amazing mother-in-law often steps in to play with him so I can focus on assignments. When we do get time together, I try to be fully present. Whether he wants to play in the yard, play with trucks, run a pretend restaurant, or anything else, I do my best to give him my full attention. We have dance parties, sing silly songs, and jam out with musical instruments— it’s our little slice of joy. To other student parents: remember your “why.” I’m pursuing this degree so that I’m never disqualified from an opportunity again because I don’t have it. After nearly a decade in the corporate world, I was laid off and struggled to find work without a bachelor’s degree. When I feel like giving up, I remind myself that the effort I put in now is an investment in a more stable, secure future for both of us. And a little tip—if you ever need a mini therapy session in a pinch, ChatGPT can actually be a really helpful tool. I've turned to it in moments of stress to calm down and regulate. It's a great supplement to formal therapy or counseling."
