When I made the decision to return to college after a long 10-year hiatus I knew I would not be the typical college student. I was returning as a wife and a mother and in many courses, I found myself being the only student in their thirties, a parent, and/or a spouse. It was very intimidating knowing I may not be able to relate to the traditional college student; however, the more open I was about my family life I was able to, not relate, but rather connect to my peers. We were able to discuss our different familial circumstances and the obstacles we faced. My peers and I were able to empathize with each other’s familial responsibilities and environment and how they impacted our studies. Being a parent to a 3 month old and a 2 year old as a returning student was difficult. I was a nursing mother at the time so my first couple of semesters was spent going to class, going to my car to pump breastmilk, then going to my next class. I have shed many tears, had sleepless nights, and had to sacrifice sharing moments with them; however, being a parent and going to college has also gifted me opportunity to learn how to manage my study time wisely, show my children that setting goals and achieving them is possible, and ultimately have a fulfilling career. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science with a concentration in Occupational Therapy in May 2021. I have recently been admitted into an Occupational Therapy Doctorate's Program. In my teens my family consisted of my father and I. My father underwent spinal surgery and was given a 2% change of walking again. He was assigned an occupational therapist soon thereafter. The magnitude of hope she was to our little family was immense. As his primary caretaker, I had to face a disappointing reality that perhaps this was not the right time to continue my college studies. When I became a mother to two daughters they inspired me to return back to college and rather than just tell them they can be what they most desire, I would show them how its possible. Pursuing my higher education would not only financially provide for my children but also became an inspiration and an example to them that they too can become women with fulfilling lives.