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Studying at postgraduate level means making big decisions and life changes. This is one thing if you only have yourself to think about, but a completely different kettle of fish if you’ve got a family to consider too. Before you dive into an exciting new course, here’s how to make sure your postgrad studying doesn’t affect your nearest and dearest.
Whether you’ll be studying full-time or part-time, it’s safe to say your free time will slowly become smaller, which will mean more time spent in the company of books instead of your family.
With that in mind, it’s important to carve out dedicated family time on a regular basis. It’ll help your loved ones reconnect with you, and it will also give your mind a break from heavy studying. Remember, your course is important, but your family will always be top of the list.
It can also be helpful to set some ground rules about your study time at home. If you’re lucky enough to have a spare room, use it and implement a 'closed door means quiet time' policy. When you’re finished for the day, make a point of catching up with your partner or kids, so they know you’re still interested and involved in their day-to-day activities.
Combining postgrad study with a family life is a balancing act, and a tiring one at that. Once you’ve finished work, spent time on your studies and taken care of family admin you’ll be happy to slump on the sofa, but your active, excitable children might not be too thrilled.
Eat well, look after yourself and get as much sleep as you can to help keep your energy levels up, but be prepared to explain that you need some quiet time now and then.
Gill Saunders, 33, a part-time postgraduate nursing student offered this advice: "At the end of the day I am well and truly exhausted, but I know it’s important to give my kids some attention, so we find a middle ground – an effortless activity like colouring together, or even me watching them play a video game. I don’t have to do much, I think they’re just glad of my company."
Postgraduate funding can be tricky, so many students find themselves financially stretched. This can be worrying if you have a family to support, especially if you’re all used to a certain standard of living.
Make a budget and figure out how much you’ll need to save, then have a family meeting to discuss ways to cut costs. Keeping them involved in any big decisions, such as limiting TV packages or having fewer days out and they’ll be less likely to create a fuss.
"I sat my children down and explained I was ‘going back to school’ for a little while, and that we would have less money," says David Eggerton, a former physics postgraduate student. "They were quite resistant as first, but once they understood why we had to make a few little sacrifices, they were actually really enthusiastic about saving even more!"
Universities are aware of the pressures facing students with families, and often have resources available to make the process a little smoother. Don’t be afraid to talk to your tutor or head of department if you need some help or advice in striking the balance.
You could also rally the support of friends and family. "I was really struggling to do the school run in the morning and make my classes on time," says Sandra Effie from Berkshire. "I was worried about the effect it was all having on the kids, until one day the car broke down completely and a friend took them with her children instead. I happened to mention how much easier my day had been as a result, and she offered to take them every day! It was such a relief, both to me and the kids. Never be afraid to just ask for a hand if you need it!"
It’s not easy juggling postgraduate study with a family. Sometimes you’ll feel like you’re being pulled in every direction! But when times get tough, focus on the end result, whether that’s a new career or a promotion – or better yet, the proud beaming smiles of your family when you graduate.
Next: Read more postgraduate life advice
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