The joys and struggles of a student father
Vic Savino, Contributor
Vic and his family on the first day of classes. SUPPLIED
Last September, during my very first month of post-secondary education, something very unexpected happened. At 25-years-old, my partner and I are now proud parents of a beautiful, happy, four month old girl. Tahliah came along and took over our lives.
When my classmates heard the news, they were practically making bets on when I would drop out. I didn’t let it get to me. I kept on trying, I got stressed out and I stumbled. I even missed an exam during her delivery week, which thankfully I was able to rewrite. After everything, I still completed my first year with honours.
On little financial assistance besides a savings account and a small annuity I receive every month, going back into my second year has been tough. The expenses build up: diapers, school supplies, tuition, text books, food, rent, cell phone, internet, family vehicle, and baby products. Some days, I have no idea how I am going to make it through the year. Yet, I still make nearly every class (occasionally late) and keep on trying my best to succeed.
I was hoping to go to university and get a degree, or even take another course at Red River. Now, I will most likely have to start working immediately.
Being a parent has really changed my perspective and I am a better person because of it. Nothing has ever made me more confident in my abilities as a human being than creating and raising one, which essentially transfers over into everything else I do.
If I had to describe parenting in one word, I would liken it to juggling. Carrying the baby and the stroller up and down three flights of stairs every day, while you pray for a few quiet hours to do homework and study. That doesn’t even include time spent cooking, eating and completing daily chores.
A year ago, I would have scoffed at the idea of having children. Now, I wouldn’t give it up for the world. It has bettered me in ways that life before parenthood never could. I am a better human and a better student for it. Somebody looks up to you, and only you. If I’m having a bad day, seeing a miniature version of me smile is the best thing to come home or wake up to.
I could do without the soiled diapers, though.
Vic Savino is a business administration student studying marketing. He loves writing, photography, film and anything computer-related. He currently spends most of his time with his newborn daughter and any time off on his bike or at the gym.
