Balancing the demands of family, work and academics is almost an impossible task. With the rising costs of education and inflation, many students must work to support their families.  

Clair Williamson and Fazy Camara, two non-traditional students with family responsibilities, share their experiences and offer valuable tips on how to successfully juggle all three. Both women also work for the student publication The Et Cetera.

“I find it difficult,” Camara said, “keeping pace of my responsibilities from day to day.” 

Williamson, a working mother of four, is pursuing her degree in nursing at Eastfield while she manages a part-time job. Fazy Camara, who works full-time and is a student at Dallas College, is working towards a history and educational degree. For both women, maintaining a work-life-school balance requires a combination of planning, flexibility and a strong support system. 

On a typical day, Clair says: “I wake up, prepare my children for school, dress, make lunches and head to school.” She attends on-campus classes and then picks up her children from elementary school. While at home, she completes her homework. She said, “I complete most of my studies and assignments while the kids are at school.”

Camara attends school for her first period, works on assignments for another class, attends virtual classes, and then returns home to manage chores and extracurricular activities.

One of the main strategies Williamson and Camara emphasize is time management. Both women have to be incredibly disciplined with their schedules to ensure they’re meeting deadlines at work and school while still dedicating time to their families.

 “I have my job to thank. My employer accommodates my schedule very well,” Camara said. 

Another key to their success is having a strong support system. Williamson relies on her spouse and immediate family to help with childcare, while Camara leans on her friends and coworkers. Both women also emphasize the importance of taking time for self-care, even if it’s just a few moments of quiet each day.

Williamson’s family is supportive of her volunteering at a local theater, demonstrating the importance of maintaining individuality. She said that her experiences will teach her children that it’s never too late to give up on their aspirations.

Balancing school, work and family isn’t easy, but Williamson and Camara are proof that it’s possible with the right strategies. From time management and prioritization, to relying on a solid support system, their advice is invaluable for students facing similar challenges.

Clair said: “If you remember to stay focused on your life’s purpose you can do hard things; you really can do anything. Start believing in yourself first, and you will see success on the other side.”