When Rachel Northrop shared with her advisors and professors that she was expecting her first child in a few months, she wasn’t sure what their reaction would be.
The moments following her announcement solidified her choice in pursuing her graduate studies at the University of Miami.
“Once I opened up about my pregnancy, many of them shared their experiences with me,” said Northrop, a Ph.D. student in English at the College of Arts and Sciences. “It made it feel like it’s not impossible.”
Alicia Sneij, a postdoctoral fellow and research dietitian at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, found out she was expecting while defending her dissertation.
“I was excited and nervous as the same time,” said the Miami native. “I think that it's good that there is more awareness, more understanding, and compassion for graduate students who are also parents because it is very challenging.”
Whether a new mom or one with older children, choosing to pursue a college degree means returning to the classroom while juggling the challenges of working to pay the bills, studying, and parenting. This is no small feat.
As a result, the Graduate School provides special information, resources, and support available for students who are expecting a child or who are already parents. By filling out a voluntary questionnaire, students can be connected with assistance that is available at the University. From children’s clothing discounts to receiving help reviewing health insurance plans, aid is available. Students also can become a member of the Graduate Student with Children Organization, where they can link with others in a similar situation.
Recently, the Graduate School hosted the Parenting Breakfast, an informational gathering that highlighted what’s available for all current and future parents. And the children also took part in the event.
“That was my first time being back on campus since having the baby and that was really fun,” said Northrop. “I was excited to have an excuse to come back to campus, even during my leave of absence. And I was happy to be in a space where my child and I were welcomed.”
Organized by Patricia Abril, associate dean, and Tiffany Plantan, executive director, both from the Graduate School; alongside Janet Stearns and Odetta Clarke of the School of Law; Laura Victoria Chamorro Dauer, Cristina Garcia, and Hilit Frenkel Mechaber of the Miller School of Medicine; and Kim Martin and Patricia Arena from the Counseling Center, the goal of the event and future happenings is to continue to build assistance for the community of current and future parents.
Sneij said she is inspired and motivated by other women on campus who have successfully juggled motherhood while pursuing their careers. She credits her mentor, Elizabeth Roy Felix, research associate professor and project director of the South Florida Spinal Cord Injury Model System, for being an advocate for working moms.
“It's just like anything that's a challenge,” said Felix, who has researched neuropathic pain since 2007. “You have to figure out how to get things into your schedule and you get through it.”
Felix also shared that surrounding yourself with a village is important for your family and to succeeding. She pointed out that attitudes and mindsets—about simultaneously working, going to school, and parenting—have changed for the better compared to years ago.
“Ask for help before you even think you need it, just to have that release,” she said. “Modify your expectations and know that you can still be successful even with such a big life change.”
Get more information about the Graduate School resources for pregnant and parenting graduate students.
