I’m A Single Mom Attending College—My Dorm Roommate Is My 6-Year-Old Son

When I learned I was expecting Matteo at 18, I believed my path to college had vanished. I was devastated, unsure how I could attend school while caring for my newborn. I had completed high school and was determined to earn a degree, but now faced an impossible dilemma. After he turned one, I finally made the decision to pursue college.

I started part-time at a nearby community college, enjoying my studies. As my son grew, I became a full-time student, earning my associate degree and transferring to a large university in New Jersey. However, balancing work, finances, and raising my young child proved too much. I couldn't keep up the workload and had to quit school to focus on my responsibilities.

That ended until I discovered a TikTok video about Wilson College's Single Parent Scholar (SPS) program. This initiative offered free on-campus housing, childcare support, and a community for single parents. I was astonished by the opportunity to live with my son on campus. Excitedly, I moved to Pennsylvania and joined the program.

Wilson College's SPS program was designed with parents and their children in mind. We shared a dorm with other single parents, and our children had a dedicated playroom. The school even organized events for kids, like Easter egg hunts. The cafeteria served kid-friendly meals, and our professors were understanding of our unique situation.

The program also emphasized community. We connected with other parents and children who shared our experiences. We helped each other with childcare, cooking, and even provided watches for sick days. Being surrounded by other moms made the challenges more manageable. Matteo is now 6, and while life is still demanding, the support network has made a significant difference.

I am now in my senior year and share my dorm room with Matteo. We've created a cozy space filled with our favorite items, and he has decorated his room to his liking. I wanted to provide him with a sense of home in this new environment. Our mornings involve getting ready for school together, having breakfast with friends, and sending Matteo to school on the bus. After work or classes, we enjoy family dinners, with everyone contributing to the cleanup.

Evenings are filled with playtime for the kids, who run around the dorm, engaging in various activities. I love seeing Matteo's excitement for school and his friendships. I hope my story encourages other single mothers to pursue their educational goals. I never imagined college would look like this, but it has become my new reality. I want other moms to know they can achieve their dreams, no matter the challenges they face.