1. How do you manage your time between parenting, working, and school?
🕒 Very carefully—and sometimes, not very well.
I like to live in my planner. I wake up early, try to plan my meals for the week on Sundays, and do homework after my son goes to sleep. But even the best plans fall apart when he gets sick or when I have a rough day at work. I’m working on being more flexible and practicing self-forgiveness. 💛
2. What’s the emotional toll of constantly caring for others?
💔 It’s heavy.
Sometimes I say, “I don’t know what made me go into school nursing for this age group, when my son is the same age. It’s literally like being a mom 24/7!”
I have to maintain calmness for my son, my students, and even their parents—despite my internal struggles. I feel as though I’m not allowed to fall apart. But I take walks to decompress, cry when I need to, or just sit in my office with the lights off and the blinds open. That peaceful 1.5 hours after the students leave and before I head home to my tiny human—it keeps me grounded. 🌿
3. What are the most rewarding parts of your day?
🎨 The little moments of love and purpose.
I feel rewarded when my son gives me his arts and crafts from school—seeing what he’s drawn for me is the highlight of my day.
My students yell my name and wave when they see me in the hallway. Other staff members often say, “Everybody just loves Nurse Naiya!”
It brings me so much joy. Also, submitting an assignment and knowing I’m one step closer to my degree is incredibly fulfilling. Every small win reminds me I’m on the right path. 🌟
4. What kind of support would make this journey easier?
🤝 Support doesn’t have to be big—it just has to be real.
Affordable, reliable childcare. Mental health days. Professors who understand the reality of student-parents. Even appreciation shout-outs help.
Nurses aren’t just medical professionals—we’re emotional anchors for students, parents, and staff. We pour from half-empty cups. Sometimes, all it takes is one person noticing your effort to lift a huge weight off your shoulders. 🧡
5. What advice do you have for other single moms trying to go back to school?
💪 You are stronger than you know.
Balancing motherhood, a career, and school may not be perfect—but it is possible and so worth it. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Make sure you rest. And always remember who you're doing this for. 💖
