Make Your Family a Part of Your College Experience

Going to college is a big decision – one likely made with the support of others. That support can come from many places, most often someone close to you. I’ve had the privilege of interviewing several students at Rasmussen College. Many tell me they lean on their family for support, which has become a big part of their success.

Take 47-year-old Karla Plante of Fargo, N. Dak., for example. With the help of her husband, Plante says she completed her Accounting Associate’s degree online this past summer. Not only did he encourage the mother of two to go back to school, but he continued to motivate her along the way with both words and actions.

“He said he admires me for being able to adapt to change and wanting to go further in my life,” said Plante. “I tear up thinking about it because I love him so much.” From the very beginning, Plante says she made her husband a part of her college experience. She asked him to review her assignments, which Plante says was a huge help. Her husband also understood the importance of study time, which wasn’t always easy to find with two kids in the house.

“My husband would take the kids out for a few hours when I needed to work on assignments,” said Plante. “I got peace and quiet.”

If you’re a busy mother going back to school, have a conversation with your family. Let your spouse and children know what you need to succeed in college, whether it’s encouraging words or more help around the house. Explain the time commitment and dedication it takes to earn a college degree, so your family understands how they can best support you.

This applies to single students as well. Turn to your parents or sibling for support. Ask them to proofread your work or something simple like get you up in time for class. Twenty-two-year-old Rasmussen College School of Justice Studies student, Aaron Gelle says he relies on his parents for support.

“If I am struggling, my parents are always there to keep me calm,” said Gelle. “Knowing they are there to turn to if I am having a difficult time with school has been the biggest help.”

How have you made your family apart of your college experience? Share with us in our comments section below.