Balancing Motherhood, Graduate School, Human Rights Advocacy, the Arts and Architectural Dreams

Being a mom to a kindergartner while pursuing my graduate studies in architecture has been a challenging yet rewarding journey. From early mornings to late nights, I've managed to balance coursework, family responsibilities, and even find time for advocacy. With the support of my husband and the incredible talents of my son, who may one day become a budding architect himself, I've navigated the busy life of a graduate student mom. Alongside my academic pursuits, we attended impactful events like the Trayvon Martin rally and engaged with the vibrant art community through the Habitat for Artists project.

Mornings and Late Nights

The life of a mom in graduate school often begins before the sun rises. Waking up early to work on assignments and projects has become a ritual, allowing me to make progress and maintain a sense of control over my workload. As the household awakens, I transition into my role as a mom, ensuring everyone gets ready for the day ahead.

Juggling Responsibilities

A typical day involves juggling multiple responsibilities: attending classes, working on projects, going to work, and being present for my family. It requires careful planning, effective time management, and occasionally sacrificing personal downtime. However, witnessing the growth and development of my son throughout this journey reminds me of the importance of pursuing my dreams and setting an example for him.

Family Support and Shared Moments

The support of my husband has been invaluable. His understanding and encouragement enable me to pursue my studies wholeheartedly. Evenings are dedicated to spending quality time with my husband and son, engaging in activities that nurture our bond. Playing Jeopardy together has become a beloved tradition, allowing us to unwind, learn, and enjoy each other's company before bedtime. One thing that seems to slack is keeping things tidy all the time. I've manage to carve out a little bit of space in the house for my mess.

A Budding Architect

One of the most incredible aspects of this journey has been watching my son's natural talent and interest in architecture. His curiosity and involvement in my projects have sparked his own creativity, leading me to believe that he may indeed be a budding architect one day. Witnessing his passion reinforces the significance of balancing motherhood and pursuing my own aspirations, as it sets a powerful example for him to follow his dreams.

Honoring Trayvon Martin's Memory

Amidst the demanding schedule, my family and I made sure to prioritize important social issues. We attended a Trayvon Martin rally at Freedom Plaza in Washington, D.C., on Saturday. Trayvon's tragic murder resonated deeply with us, as it could have been any of our African American sons. It was essential to join the rally, stand in solidarity, and demand justice for Trayvon and an end to racial injustice. The experience reinforced the importance of using our voices and actions to create a more equitable and inclusive society for our children's future.

Cultural Engagement:

In addition to my academic pursuits and our advocacy, our family actively participates in vibrant art community events such as this one before the rally through the Habitat for Artists curated by Amy Lipton entitled "How Much? How Little? The Space to Create." This temporary public art project allowed us to engage with the transformative power of art while supporting the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities' commitment to fostering creativity.

Being a mom to a kindergartner while pursuing a graduate degree in architecture has been a rewarding yet demanding journey. It requires sacrifices, time management, and a strong support system. I am fortunate to have the unwavering support of my husband and the incredible assistance of my son, who demonstrates a natural talent for architecture. As we navigate this path together, we remain committed to addressing important social issues, exemplified by our participation in the Trayvon Martin rally. With dedication, support, and a shared vision, we can create a brighter future for our family and contribute to a more just and inclusive world.

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