[kimchee67]

I'm really torn right about what classes to take. I have to register 2 classes, but I'm having a hard time deciding what schedule I want. I thought that other student mommies might have more experience/insight, but I'm open to everyone's suggestions.

Here's the deal:
I have one mandatory class: Intro to Counseling Research. It's Wednesday nights from 7:15-10pm.

My choice is between two other classes, listed below. I'll list the pros and cons of each class. Class 1: Alcohol/Substance Abuse- Tuesday/Thursday 6:30-8:45
-Pro: This is the class that I originally wanted to take. I am more interested in it, and feel that it is more pertinent to my life right now. If I take it, my days will be short (only about 2-3 hours/night). The classes are all later in the evening so my parents will definately be off work to babysit. I live in the busy SF Bay Area and will most likely miss the big traffic rush at this hour.
-Cons-I have to go to class 3 nights/week, and I'll have to find babysitting for all three nights.

Class 2- Gender Perspectives Monday/Wednesday 4:30-7pm
-Pros: This is one of my interests, and I have already taken a lot of gender classes. This may ease my transition back into school. I would only have to go to school 2 days a week, so I would save on time and money. Finding babysitting 2 nights/week is easier than 3. The classes are earlier so I'll be home earlier.
-Cons: The time is earlier, so I might hit more commute traffic. I'll have to be at school for 6 hours + 2 hours commute on Wednesday. That will interfere with my pumping schedule, I'll be more likely to be uncomfortable, and I don't really want to have to pump in the parking lot or bathroom. It is possible that I can go the whole time without pumping, but will uncomfortable and might leak.

I tried to list everything, but I'm sure I've forgot some stuff. Feel free to ask any questions...

[angelic_ky]

with the second class you could talk to the teachers; there's usually break periods and you might be able to organise a empty class room where you could pump

[MissyChrissy]

What about pumping in the car during the commute? I attempted it when pumping for Conner. IUD ruined my milk supply, so I never got it down pat

Personally, I'd go for the Alcohol & Substance Abuse one. From my perspective, it looks like the pros for that class outweigh the pros for the other one.

And-I took the Alcohol class my 1st semester & found it easy. I had experience in that I worked as a secretary in an alcohol & drug outpatient treatment center, so I was familiar with the terminology and mind-set of the "clients" the class discussed. I'm sure if you lived it yourself, you'll be far more prepared for that class than you think right now.

[MissyChrissy]

Oh-I forgot to ask-are any classes available online? I've taken many classes online that didn't quite fit with my schedule. Alcohol & Substance Abuse was one of them.

[MrsMaryland]

i think you take the alcohol/substance abuse class.

it's a class that you really want to take, so even though there are cons, at least you're taking a class that you really want to take.

you'll have classes on tuesdays, wednesdays and thursday nights, and even though the classes aren't exactly at the same time you'll have a somewhat regular routine.

i had to take two classes too. so i'm taking one class on thursdays 6-9:50pm and another on friday 6-8:50pm.

i don't know how traffic is in sf, but i definitely understand. i have to leave my house at 4, i get to school at about 5, and class doesn't start until 6 (if i leave at 5 i won't get there until about 7:30).

good luck in your classes.

[kimchee67]

Okay, I made my decision. I registered for the class I wanted. We are TTC at the end of this year, hoping for #2 next summer. That means I'll take next summer off and would have to take the class I want in 2 years. It just wasn't worth it to me, especially given all the pros. So, I'm really excited and think I made a good choice. Thank you all so much!!

Oh, and there are no online classes. They are evening/weekend classes though, so for me that is good since my parents don't usually work during those times.

[angelic_ky]

good luck with the schooling... hope you enjoy the classes

[MissyChrissy]

Sounds like a wonderful plan...and waiting 2 years to take your course would have been a bummer.

Good luck with TTC #2 at the end of the year!