Summary

Two students return to school in their 30s and discuss the challenges they faced as non-traditional students raising daughters.

Mothers Make It Happen

So when Tahlia Disisto, 34, a sociology major and math minor who will graduate this June, had an important Zoom interview and a sick 2-year-old on her hands, she took care of both with aplomb.

Accustomed to balancing parenthood, schoolwork, academic research and running the small sunscreen company, she co-founded, Disisto is one of nearly 1,000 undergraduate, graduate and professional UCLA students who juggle their studies and more with caring for children, parents or siblings.

“Parenting and caregiving students defy the odds and tangibly display commitment, a growth mindset and dedication,” said Ishia Orozco-Barajas, director of UCLA’s Students with Dependents Program. “No journey is the same, but each and every experience contributes to making history, changing the narrative and paving the way for future generations.”

Read the complete story by Citlalli Chávez-Nava.