Name: Farheen 

Age:25

Number of Children: 1

Married, Never Married, Divorced, Widowed? Married

College:  California State Polytechnic University, Pomona

Dream Job/ Career Goals (Or current career if you are finished with college):

My dream job is to be a Child Psychologist

“Do all you can to make your dreams come true”

Why did you decide to go (back) to school?

I am the first to go to college in my family. I not only want to make them proud, but prove to myself that I am capable of completing college and earning a degree.

What is your biggest fear in terms of college?

My biggest fear is failing. Not just in literal terms, as in earning an F, but giving up and not earning a degree. Although, only I can ensure that doesn’t happen.

Do you associate with students who aren’t mothers? If so, how do you feel around them?

Yes I do. It sometimes feels a bit awkward because I am older, married and a mother. I feel out of place from the typical “college life”.

What inspires/motivates you?

My son motivates me. I want to make a name for myself to ensure a promising future for my son (and future children). My mother also inspires me. She has worked so hard to get me where I am today. She did not have the opportunity to go to college, but she always talked about how important it is to complete school.

Tell me a little bit of your story:

I graduated High school from Langham Creek HS in Houston, TX. Never did I imagine getting married and moving thousands of miles away from home. I got married at the age of 20 in 2009, then had my first baby at age 23 in 2012. Throughout these life changing events, I continued going to school.  I used to look at my friends from HS and see how they have completed college and all have careers now and honestly it felt a bit discouraging knowing that I still have not finished. However, with the help of family and some amazing friends, I know that the finish line is near and I will graduate.

Favorite inspirational quote?

“Do all you can to make your dreams come true”  – Joel Olsteen

Any advice for other mothers thinking about going/returning to college?

It is scary. It is overwhelming and tiring. But, it is also exciting and challenging and intriguing. Don’t lose hope, and believe in yourself.  You can do anything you set your mind to.

Thank you so much for sharing your story with me and other moms like us, Farheen! I know your story will bring encouragement to other moms! 

(If you would like to be a “Moms Like Us” mom, please visit http://www.collegesuccessformoms.com and contact me!)