Many students in Lawrence Technological University’s Physician Assistant and nursing program balance academic rigor with family responsibilities.
Paige Arnold, a nursing student, was born in Detroit and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in sports management with a concentration in medicine. Arnold has been an athlete her whole life and has four daughters, 5 stepchildren, a niece, and a nephew.
In 2019, when Arnold was seven months pregnant with her third daughter, her sister KaBria was killed, shifting her outlook on life. “As a single mom, and going through another delivery on my own, I felt safe, comfortable, and well taken care of during my delivery and stay at the Beaumont-Royal Oak Karmanos Natural Birth Center.” That is when Arnold found her calling to become a labor and delivery nurse/midwife.
To Arnold, balancing school, finance, and family is not equal, and she addresses each as needs arise. “My daughters see me study and thoroughly taking care of them while doing school has created a bond that warms my heart. Being open and honest with them made communication easier and helped me understand each child’s love language and how to support them individually,” Arnold said.
She hopes to graduate with her degree in nursing and possibly get a master’s or doctoral degree. Arnold advises anyone debating on going back to school that “it’s never too late to go after your goals/dreams. It’s even better when you’re doing it with your child(ren) because it will make them believe in themselves.”
Nadiya Borys, a first year PA student, always knew she wanted to be part of the medical field ever since learning about the cardiovascular system in elementary school. “I was passionate about how the body works and wanted to positively make an impact on others’ lives, no matter how big or small.”
Borys had her son during junior year of undergrad and describes balancing school and homelife as challenging; “ sometimes it feels like you’re succeeding at both and sometimes it feels like you’re failing at both. It’s about navigating and doing the best you can.” Her mentor, a second year PA student and mother, advised Borys to try her best with her son and spend as much time as she can.
For Borys, having a great support system helps in balancing school and parenthood. “I am very fortunate to have a great support system. My husband is also very supportive and knows this has been my dream. Knowing that I‘m doing this for my son, my patients, and will be making a difference in patients’ lives makes it worth it.”
Borys hopes to work in a cardiology office and advises others to do their best. “School is challenging, regardless if you have a child, all that matters is that you are driven. There are moments when it gets challenging, but it’s that dream that keeps you going.”
Raven Semma, a second year PA student, is a mom of two daughters. Semma’s path to PA school grew from a deep-rooted passion for serving others and a lifelong fascination with the human body.
Semma describes balancing motherhood and school as one of the most demanding periods of her life: “The rigors of PA school alone are substantial, and adding two small children into the mix often feels like juggling with fire. What makes it possible is our support system and prayer and trust in God’s plan. When I feel overwhelmed, I remind myself that this is a temporary sacrifice for a lasting gain, both for our family’s future and for the patients I’ll eventually serve,” Semma explained. She is working towards a life where her work and home life complement each other.
She advises others balancing school and personal life to take it one day at a time. “Focus on steady progress. Expect impediments, obstacles, setbacks, and stress, but never lose sight of the overall goals and don’t overlook the many rewarding, enjoyable, and memorable moments!”
Balancing school and life is unique to each person. For Arnold, Borys, and Semma, the opportunity to provide compassionate care while inspiring their children makes it worthwhile—proving it is never too late to pursue your dreams.
By: Nurzahan Rahman
