Many women follow the chronological progression taught to us by our parents: K-12 education, college, work, marriage and mom, in that particular order. We come to believe that the education and skill acquired along each step of this traditional path prepares us for the next one. Unfortunately, because of the belief in this chronology, many moms feel that they missed the educational or career opportunities simply because they’re already moms.
But some of the success stories told by moms that balance it all – career, family, outside interests – shake up this order and show us that there are times when the skills of what we’ve traditionally identified as the last step – motherhood – can actually serve as basic training for our career path.
Gloria Tufo is one such example. Gloria had her first child in 1994, while working full-time as a data entry specialist. In 1995, she became certified as a Novell Administrator, and began classes in Computer Information Systems at DeVry University. She was promoted to project assistant, and then to IT LAN administrator.
In 1998, Gloria had her second son, and also started a new job as a database administrator, and then was promoted to Information Systems Manager.
In 2000, Gloria welcomed a third son, and also started in a new position as Director of Information Technology. She graduated from DeVry University in 2006, with awards for her senior project and GPA accomplishments. She then went on to DeVry University’s Keller Graduate School of Management and pursued dual master degrees in business administration and project management. In addition, in 2008, Gloria, now a Keller graduate, became a business partner, putting her MBA capstone project into action as an actual business plan for her new venture.
Gloria’s perspective on simultaneously starting a family, pursuing a degree, and working full-time should serve as an encouragement to moms who feel they’ve inadvertently opted out of the educational phase that can lead to career fulfillment. “Raising my three children and having a loving and supportive family has taught me many skills and has provided me with a knowledge that is not found in other organizations or training facilities. I’m learning everyday. Without the support and perseverance of my family, I could not have achieved any of my accomplishments.” |
