LaNisha Potts is a second-year PharmD candidate at the Howard University College of Pharmacy.
Imagine having an exam in biostatistics, an exam in pharmacokinetics, and an essay due for health care ethics all in one week. Now imagine having a science project, a parent–teacher conference, and a piano recital in the very same week. That is the level of stress student pharmacists who are also parents must deal with for 4 years. That is, if we are not also interested in doing research, obtaining a leadership position, or participating in extracurricular activities on campus, which would be in addition to the list.
My name is LaNisha Potts, and I am a “Mom Student Pharmacist.” I say that with pride and conviction in my choice to go back to school with 3 lovely children, one of whom was barely walking when I started.
The decision to go back to school is never an easy one, especially when you are already living a full life; however, doing something for yourself that you love and desire should only make your life more enjoyable in the future.
Pharmacy school is a challenge in itself, and being a parent is also a challenge, so combining the two together would seem impossible from the outside, but it is not. The task is indeed challenging, but it is possible. I am a witness to yet another level of greatness parents can achieve.
Tips for success
During my first year of pharmacy school, my children were 9 years, 6 years, and 18 months old .
Yes, I know what you’re thinking, and I felt the same way. However, I was able to finish my first year with an incredible GPA and I was awarded Student of the Year for my class. With that, here are a few tips that I believe helped me be successful my first year and that I will continue to apply throughout the remainder of my years in school.
1. Make a schedule.
Making a schedule includes being organized. I was able to manage my time by organizing not only all of my classes, but also the schedules of my children's activities. It helps to know ahead of time when assignments are due or what events are taking place so you are able to plan accordingly. This skill can be useful for parents and nonparents alike, and it will ensure you do not miss a deadline or an event.
2. Maximize your time.
When making the schedule, be sure to maximize the times you have allotted for the activity. Most days I have set periods when I am able to study, and during those periods I made sure to study effectively and efficiently. Once those periods are over, I have to switch into what I call “mommy mode,” and studying comes to a halt.
Try to not linger too long on one subject at a time but try increasing the days that subject is studied.
3. Listen to your body.
This may be the hardest tip to follow.
Often, we as parents—or even professional students—push ourselves to the limit over and over. But staying up late to cram for an exam the next morning will not give your body the rest it needs. Skipping lunch or dinner to study longer will not provide the nutrients needed to achieve maximum retention of the information.
When your body says its hungry, eat. If it’s tired, go to sleep. Our brains are constantly spinning with learning/processing, understanding, and then applying new information. It is in our best interest to listen to ourselves and provide fuel for what we need the most.
4. Follow your heart.
For all the student parents out there, or those parents contemplating whether to become a student again, I say follow your heart. Your dreams are truly achievable, and you will be happier in the end.