Every pregnancy is unique. Today, I want to share my experience and offer some tips, but it’s important to note that what I describe is based on my personal journey. Every woman experiences pregnancy differently, and what worked for me may not apply to everyone. However, I will explain how I managed school, work, and pregnancy, and what I wish I had known to make this period easier. Managing pregnancy while balancing school and work can be a challenge, but with the right approach, it’s possible to stay organized and focused.
My Pregnancy and Its Challenges
Managing pregnancy during school requires a lot of mental and physical effort. For me, pregnancy was relatively easy. I didn’t experience nausea during my first trimester, and I didn’t feel particularly fatigued. The fatigue started to set in during the second trimester, and nausea appeared towards the third trimester. By that time, I had already planned my maternity leave and intended to stay home. However, I know that for many women, pregnancy can be much more challenging, especially in the first trimester, with nausea, extreme fatigue, and other symptoms that can make daily activities, including school and work, very exhausting.
The Challenge of Balancing School, Work, and Pregnancy
When I found out I was pregnant in the summer, I hadn’t planned to be pregnant during my studies. I returned to school in September after the summer break but quickly realized I wasn’t as focused as before. Between medical appointments, irregular class schedules, and part-time work, it was hard to juggle everything. I decided to take online classes because it allowed me to study from home and avoid commuting to school, especially since I didn’t have a car and my partner also worked.
However, I’m not a big fan of online classes. I’ve always found that the physical school environment helped me concentrate better. Going to school, sitting in the library, and studying in a focused space motivated me. At home, it was more difficult. There were many distractions, and I spent a lot of time on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, looking for advice from other expectant mothers instead of focusing on my studies. This affected my academic performance, although I still passed my courses, albeit not with the grades I had hoped for.
Taking a Break to Manage Better
After the first semester, I decided to take a break for the winter semester. I knew I would be in my eighth or ninth month of pregnancy in January, and balancing school with a baby would be too difficult. Living in Canada, where winters are harsh, also played a role in my decision. It wasn’t reasonable for me to have to commute frequently in snowy weather. So, I opted to take a break to prepare for the arrival of my baby and to focus on him during his first few months.
Tips for Managing Pregnancy, School, and Work Effectively
1. Prepare Mentally: Being pregnant while pursuing studies and working can be exhausting, but mental preparation is key. Plan ahead, know what you need to accomplish, and organize yourself to be 100% focused on your goals. If I had planned better, I could have managed my time and priorities more effectively.
2. Take Online Classes If Necessary: If you need to take online classes, try to structure them in a way that they don’t become a source of distraction. Online classes can be convenient, but they require a lot of self-discipline. If you’re someone who needs structure, in-person classes might be a better fit.
3. Don’t Let Pregnancy Stop You from Finishing Your Studies: Being pregnant shouldn’t prevent you from achieving your academic goals. If you have a plan and can adapt your schedule, go for it. Talk to your professors and ask for help if needed. You can also work in groups with other students to share the workload.
4. Ask for Help: If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to ask for help, whether it’s from a professor, a teaching assistant, or even fellow students. Working in a group can save you time and make tasks less overwhelming.
5. Take a Break If Needed: If you feel like you can’t handle everything, taking a semester off can be a good solution. Find out about your university’s policies on breaks and re-enrollment, and make sure you’re aware of your options.
6. Use a Calendar: A well-organized calendar can be a real asset. Write down important dates for school, work, and home. This will help you manage your time better and ensure you don’t miss any important deadlines.