Lecture Notes: Overcoming Challenges as a Student Parent

Background

• Speaker was not originally planning to have their child as a roommate while attending Bowdoin College.
• Feared that disclosure might affect college admission.
• Took a job at Staples, cleaning at night to support themselves and their child.

Challenges Faced

• Brought the child to work, sometimes had to keep them in a closet while working.
• Experienced significant stress and weight loss (27 pounds), due to lack of food and resources.
• Relied on basketball teammates for childcare support.
  • Instances where teammates watched over the child in the dorm.

Emotional Experiences

• Never felt embarrassed about having the child present, felt occasional awkwardness.
• The child was a source of motivation and comfort during challenging times.

Significant Milestones

• Graduation day was especially memorable:
  • Received a standing ovation from classmates.
  • Walked on stage with the child.
  • The Dean announced both their names during the diploma presentation.
• Although the speaker graduated, they humorously noted the child still needs their own degree.

Reflections

• Mutual admiration and love between the speaker and child.
• Speaker draws strength from the child, citing them as a continuous source of inspiration.