Earning a master’s degree while working full time and raising three young kids probably sounds impossible, right? I thought so too, but I’m here to tell you it’s totally doable. In August 2025, I graduated from Tarleton State University with my Master of Science in Management (Marketing Concentration), and I did it in just one year. All while being a mom, wife, and working full-time. If I can do it, trust me, you can too.
So, what’s the secret? Honestly, it all comes down to one thing: discipline. But I’ll be real with you, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. There were tough days and plenty of late nights. But I found a rhythm, and a few key things really helped me stay on track.
The Power of a Schedule (and Sticking to It)
I’m a huge believer in planning ahead. My biggest tip? Make a schedule and stick to it. Sounds simple, but it’s everything. Being organized and consistent was a total game-changer for me. And when life got busy (which, let’s face it, it always does), I had to be intentional about planning in advance. It helped me stay on top of assignments and work.
But here’s the thing: even the best plans sometimes fall apart, and that’s totally fine. I learned to give myself some grace. There were weeks when I had to be okay with not checking off every box on my to-do list. And guess what? The world didn’t end.
Flexibility Was My Best Friend
One of the biggest blessings during grad school was the flexibility of Tarleton’s online classes. Since everything was virtual, I was able to fit school around my family’s schedule. Plus, many of my professors uploaded all assignments at the start of the semester, which meant I could work ahead when I had the time. Some classes even offered recorded lectures, so I could watch them on my own time, which was a lifesaver.
But here’s the key: even with all that flexibility, the professors were super clear about deadlines. That helped me stay organized and accountable. It really struck the perfect balance between having some independence and still having enough structure to keep me on track.
Knowing When to Ask for Help (And When to Focus)
If I’m being honest, a lot of my success came from knowing when to ask for help and when to put my foot down about what needed to be my priority. I had to be okay with leaning on my family or coworkers when I needed a hand. But I also had to be unapologetic when I needed to buckle down and focus on school or family.
That balance, being able to adjust when necessary, was the real game-changer for me. I gave myself permission to take breaks when I needed them, and to push hard when it mattered most.
A Final Word: You’ve Got This
Now that I’ve officially crossed the finish line, I’m filled with gratitude. This whole journey has been tough at times, but it’s been 100% worth it. My story is proof that with discipline, support, and a little bit of self-compassion, you can achieve whatever you set your mind to even when life is overflowing.
My Top Tips for Parents Pursuing a Master’s Degree
- Make a schedule and stick to it.
- Work ahead whenever you can.
- Stay organized and consistent, but don’t beat yourself up when things don’t go as planned.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
- Prioritize what matters most in each season of life.
Trust me, if you stay focused and stay true to your purpose, you’ll not only make it through but thrive along the way. And remember, you’re carrying that Purple legacy forward every step of the way. Because at Tarleton, this Purple never fades.