single parent reapplicants?

[chicadehuskers]

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I am a single mother of an infant and am on a waitlist this year. I don't really have the freedom to move at a moment's notice (I had to sign a contract for my job on Apirl 15, but they are aware I may be moving), so if I don't find out soon, I am also reapplying for next year (2005). I was just wondering if any of you reapplicants out there are in the same boat? If so, what are your plans for study time vs. family time, finances, child care, etc. once you are accepted? Any similar advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Bunsen Honeydew]

with you and your ability to be a single parent. I'm married wiht a 3-year old and would like to have another child shortly (am approaching that critical age). I hope you don't take this the wrong way, but I don't know how you do it. I've often thought that I couldn't make it if I was a single parent.

I hope that you have some childcare help, be it from family, friends, or a great babysitter. It isn't easy, but I honestly think that where there's a will (which you obviously have + amazing ability), there's a way.

I can't offer any real advice, except to try to get people lined up to help; both if you do get in or if you need ot re-apply.

Also, I included my parenting in my application, which I think is a good idea. I was clear (well, at least pretended to be) in my interviews (I'm on two waitlists), that I had childcare figured out and support from those around me. It doesn't have to be a liability that you are a single parent. It really shows what tremendous determination and abilities you have.

Congrats, Hugs, and GOOD LUCK!!!!

 

[pathdr2b]

I am a single mother of an infant and am on a waitlist this year. I don't really have the freedom to move at a moment's notice (I had to sign a contract for my job on Apirl 15, but they are aware I may be moving), so if I don't find out soon, I am also reapplying for next year (2005). I was just wondering if any of you reapplicants out there are in the same boat? If so, what are your plans for study time vs. family time, finances, child care, etc. once you are accepted? Any similar advice would be greatly appreciated.

Me, me, me, although I'm engaged with a wedding date set for "sometime in the future".

I personally waited a few years until my daughter was older (along with other family problems too) before trying to pursue medicine again. However, if I had decided to do it while she was younger, I would certainily have decelerated my first year to give me time to adjust. I'm not very worried about childcare, time with my family, ect because I've always managed to make things work out (I had her when I was married/seperated in grad school). The biggest issue seems to be having the money to take care of necessities, so now that I no longer have that as an issue, I'm rolling ahead!!!! 👍

Good Luck!

 

[chicadehuskers]

Thank you so much for your replies. I was honestly beginning to think that perhaps I AM crazy for even attempting medical school while my daughter is so young. Somehow it just makes me feel more confident to know that someone else has done it/is doing it, etc. I do have an incredible support system from my family and friends. I also have the advantage of having my M.S. in Anatomy, which will greatly reduce the difficulty and stress level of my first year. I am very worried about finances, but I have been saving every extra penny, so I'm hoping that that will help. Maybe hell will freeze over and her father will start sending child support also!🙂 I'm considering trying to get extra loans to hire a nanny. Has anyone reading this ever used a nanny? Anyway, thanks again for your words of support.

 

[Bunsen Honeydew]

Hey, there: Glad you're not losing hope and glad that you have strong support. That's great. I did a part-time nanny for awhile with my son when he was young and I was doing my postbac classes. I reduced my workload b/c I was still breastfeeding (I often had leaky breasts by the end of orgo lecture 😉). Finding the right person can be a little tricky, but talking to people and finding out what they looked for, getting recommendations about people they might know who are available, etc., is a good way to start.

Most nannies are wonderful and care very much for your child. You just need to feel comfortable wiht the person. We put our son in daycare when he was about 18 mo., which worked out fine. Now I'm working f/t, and my son is in a new f/t daycare, which is more like pre-school. THis has been a wonderful experience, and we're all really happy.

You have to decide what you're comfortable with, and work out a schedule. Sounds like you really have a handle on everything. Just don't hesitate to ask for help from friends and family.

Hang in there. You're doing GREAT!!!!!

BH

 

[beanbean]

Med school is possible with an infant! I am 36, married, and was the mom of two girls, ages 5 and 7, and was waiting for my acceptance when I found out - surprise - I was pregnant. My son was born at 35 wks via c-section (my other 2 were vaginal, full-term) on Aug. 30, 2003. He was a happy, healthy little guy once he got some antibiotics for his lung infection and I returned to school 2 1/2 weeks after his birth.

So, what made this crazy year possible:

1) supportive spouse and extended family

2) a wonderful, amazing nanny (I was a stay-at-home mom with my girls and it was very important to me to find the right person)

3) awesome school, faculty and classmates.

The first two years are not bad. I am a bit concerned about juggling rotations 3rd year because my husband travels quite a bit. I have class from 8-12 and two afternoons I am busy until 5PM. I study at home, mostly at night after the kids go to bed.

If you do end up reapplying, I suggest looking at schools that offer a schedule of morning classes, not full days of lecture. Having a few afternoons free during the week too study and be a mom is very helpful.

Best of luck to you,

Deirdre