Millennial Mum: Balancing Online Study with Work and Wellbeing

There are now endless possibilities and courses available online, and with places like CUC Western Riverina, there are fewer barriers! Still, this can be challenging for many regional students and even more so for parents.

In 2024, I enrolled in a Diploma of Project Management through TAFE NSW, hoping to complete a course that more accurately reflected my career goals and professional skills.  I had been studying for a Master of Teaching, but in addition to some personal setbacks, the idea of undertaking 60 days of placement was daunting. At that point, I had a young family and a full-time and casual job and was involved in many volunteering and community projects. The lack of citizenship and increased cost of living complicated matters, as did managing a disability and health condition.

By the end of 2024, I had enrolled in the Diploma and was accepted into a Leadership Program, delivering Stage 1 of a customised TAFE course in partnership with Diversity Arts Australia. I earned a Statement of Attainment for two units (provide systems advocacy services and research and apply evidence to practice). The systems advocacy unit was a highlight, and I am so grateful for the support that made completing this possible. So, here are the things I’ve learned and my tips for juggling multiple commitments and being open to opportunities.

It helps to be interested in what you’re learning! 

Sure, there are some boring parts to everything, but when life is overwhelming, the things you’re “doing for doing’s sake” can be given less priority. It is proven that you are likely to do better, submit on time and have less chance of dropping subjects you are interested in and passionate about. From experience, I assure you!

Look for opportunities to study alongside a practical or career-based opportunity

Learning on the job or gaining qualifications as part of a program was amazing for me; seeing things in practice helps the learning process and gives one an insight into how you might apply your knowledge to the workplace. The Diversity Arts Australia program was directly related to my volunteer work with Western Riverina Arts and my lived experience as a CALD/CARM woman. Are any organisations, programs, or groups offering a micro-credential or customised learning experience that connects with something important to you? This idea is also true for apprenticeships and traineeships, integrated learning programs, or even professional development webinars through work and digital courses via platforms like LinkedIn, Masterclass, and inrehearsal.

Follow study-related media

I consistently try to stay connected to relevant content through social media, especially TikTok and YouTube. Sometimes, a good TED talk or creators focusing on study tips helps demystify concepts or challenges. Look for content related to your course or accounts aimed at students or your career field as a starting point. Looking for a movie to watch? Why not one where the main character does the job you want to do?

Find a dedicated study space

As much as we think we’ll study “once the kids are in bed” or while they’re “quietly playing, ” it can be difficult. If you need to study, find an optimal study space like CUC Western Riverina or the local library. If you’re like me and don’t have family close by – connect with a babysitter or trusted friend and try and set aside 2-3 hours to focus on studying at least once a week. If you can’t be away, try scheduling time to watch or listen to lectures in the morning (preferably before everyone wakes up), while driving, or even while doing the laundry. P.S. wireless earbuds were great for this!

Ask for support

My partner is a superstar and became the primary parent for a large part of 2024, initially giving me time to work on my health. So, by the time I was studying again, he had a whole routine with our son. If you’re feeling stretched, don’t hesitate to ask for support. Let go of the guilt and invest the time to study, even if it’s small steps at first.

You’ll feel better for it.

Health and wellbeing come first

Sometimes, we need to pause and focus on our health and wellbeing. I wish I had set aside more time to check in with myself before I had no choice but to take a break. Poor health will affect everything in your life: work, parenting, relationships, and studies. See your GP, dentist, or other healthcare provider, and seek support from friends, family, and your community. There are also many digital tools and resources for managing your mental health, such as MindSpot’s Big 5 quiz and BlackDog’s online resources.