“Istarted off at a community college, but during my last year there, I got pregnant. My initial reaction was denial because I didn’t have any symptoms. But, once I got over that, I was like, this is a choice that I made and I’m just going to have to roll with it. It is very challenging being a parent and being in college at the same time. I don’t always get to do things on campus. Sometimes I miss out on things, but that’s fine. I wouldn’t trade my daughter for anything.

Also, the support system that I have really helps me out. My daughter and I stay with my grandparents. They’re retired, so instead of me having to place my daughter in daycare, my grandparents watch her for me. That’s a big help.

And, I owe a lot to my professors. They know my situation, and they’ve really helped me. They’re really supportive, and they push me. They know that I’m not doing this just for me. I’m doing it for my daughter as well. I want her to have a better life because she deserves it.”

– Jantomi, senior journalism and media studies major from Denton, Tex.