In the run-up to Mother's Day 2019 we wanted to celebrate some of the student mums we have studying at London Met. In the fifth interview, we speak to mum-of-one, Karen Baena Lopez.
We spoke to Tourism and Travel Management student, Karen Baena Lopez, about what it's like being a mother and a student at the same time.
How do you juggle being both a mother and a student?
Well, it's all about time management. It's about preparing yourself, looking at a calendar and deciding what you're going to do on what day.
What is your proudest moment at university so far?
Actually being in university, actually making it to university. When I fell pregnant I thought, OK that's it, that's the end of my career, I'm not going to be able to study, I'm not going to be able to manage it. But, actually being here in uni and passing the years getting good grades is my proudest moment.
What advice would you give to mothers who are about to start university?
Go to university! There is actually a lot of support, especially here in London Met. There's counselling if you're stressed or if you have anxiety if there is too much work. There are also parent societies so there is actually a lot of support. You shouldn't be scared and thinking "I'm going to be the only mum," or that you're going to be an older mum or a younger mum. There is actually a variety of parents of different ages here and we can relate and help each other.
Can you sum up your university experience in one word?
Fun! I'm going to use that word.
