Going back to school while working full time and being a dad, what have I gotten myself into

May 131 min read

Started night classes last semester to finally finish my degree. I'm exhausted all the time and my wife is basically running the household while I'm studying. Miss just being home and present with my family on weeknights. But I got a B on my first exam and I actually felt proud of myself in a way I haven't in years. My kids think it's cool that I'm doing homework like them. The identity shift is weird though, used to just be Dad and Employee, now I'm also Student. Long term I know this opens doors but right now in the trenches it's brutal. Anyone else doing this? How do you not feel guilty about the time away from your family?

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Comments(8)

BBrandonNew Dad3w ago

Night classes plus full time work plus being present for your kids is a lot. Make sure you're not burning yourself out. The degree will be there but you won't be if you crash.

JJakeNew Dad3w ago

I respect the hustle but please don't let this consume you. I know it feels like you have to prove something but your kids would rather have a present dad than an exhausted one working toward a degree. Set some boundaries and actually take care of yourself.

RRonRegular3w ago

This is a grind but you're doing something amazing for your family's future. Just remember that it won't always be this intense. Once you finish the degree the payoff will be worth every late night and missed sleep.

DDerek P.Regular3w ago

Dude I'm doing the exact same thing right now and yeah it's brutal. Some weeks I feel like I'm running on fumes. The good news is it does get easier once you find your rhythm. Have you thought about talking to your professor about your situation? Most of them are pretty understanding.

KKevinNew DadMay 13

You're basically superhuman right now. How many classes are you taking? And how is your wife handling the schedule?

CColin M.New Dad3w ago

Respect the grind but real question is whether this is temporary or long term. What's the end goal?

DDerek S.RegularMay 13

Props for going back to school, that takes serious guts. Just make sure you're not neglecting yourself in the process because burnout is real. Your family needs you healthy more than they need you stressed and exhausted all the time.

MMason K.New Dad3w ago

This is brutal but also brave. I tried going back to school part time and quit after two semesters. The exhaustion was real. How much longer until you're done?