In this heartfelt essay, Victoria Marie Lees recounts her experience of returning to college at the age of 40 while raising five children. She shares the challenges she faced as she tried to balance academic pursuits with family responsibilities. Initially overwhelmed by the demands of coursework, especially in subjects like statistics, Lees found herself struggling to maintain her role as a mother and wife. Her story highlights the importance of prioritizing family and adjusting educational plans when necessary. Ultimately, she learned valuable lessons about perseverance and adaptability, which helped her successfully complete her degree over a decade later.

The Struggles and Triumphs of a Mid-Life Student

In the autumn of her life, Victoria Marie Lees embarked on an ambitious journey to pursue higher education. At 40, she was not only a dedicated mother to five children but also a woman determined to fulfill her long-held dream of obtaining a college degree. The decision to enroll in community college came after years of hesitation, influenced by her father’s advice to delay higher education. With a mix of excitement and apprehension, Lees began her studies, hoping to balance her new academic responsibilities with her family obligations.

Her initial enthusiasm was soon dampened by the rigors of college-level mathematics. Statistics, in particular, became a significant hurdle. The professor’s teaching style did not align with her learning needs, and the lack of support outside class exacerbated her difficulties. As stress mounted, Lees found herself neglecting household duties and snapping at her children and husband. The once harmonious family dynamic shifted, leading to strained relationships and personal frustration.

Realizing that her pursuit of education was affecting her family, Lees made the difficult decision to withdraw from the statistics course. This move allowed her to refocus on her family and reassess her approach to learning. With the support of school counselors, she eventually found a professor whose teaching methods better suited her. After two semesters, she successfully completed both Statistics I and II, proving that persistence and adaptability were key to her success.

Ten years later, Lees earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania. Her journey taught her that achieving academic goals is possible, even for non-traditional students, but it requires flexibility and a strong commitment to family values.

From a reader’s perspective, Lees’ story serves as a powerful reminder that education is a lifelong pursuit, and it’s never too late to chase one’s dreams. Her experience underscores the importance of balancing personal ambitions with familial responsibilities. Lees’ resilience and willingness to adapt her approach offer valuable lessons for anyone facing similar challenges. Her story encourages readers to prioritize their well-being and the well-being of their loved ones while striving for personal growth.