Balancing work, school and parenting is no small feat. Late-night study sessions, overlapping commitments, moments of self-doubt — and even the occasional baby-related mess — are all part of the experience. For students like Josiah Mott in Boise State University’s online cyber operations and resilience program, this is the reality they navigate every day.
Earning a degree while raising a family takes determination, adaptability and perseverance. Despite exhaustion, stress and the urge to give up, student-parents like Mott press on, motivated by their goals and the desire to build a better future for their families.
Making it work
For Mott, balancing work, school and parenting is no small feat, but it’s a challenge he embraces with intentionality and discipline. As a working parent, Mott navigates the complexities of professional responsibilities while being present for his family and pursuing higher education.
One of the greatest hurdles, he says, is the unpredictability of family life.
“Sometimes, you know, things happen that are out of your control,” he said. “When you’ve got kids, sometimes they don’t act the way you hope, and sometimes you get calls from their principal or their teacher.”
Despite these moments of chaos, Mott acknowledges the value of working for an employer who understands the importance of work-life balance.
“Luckily, I work for somebody who understands that and doesn’t have a problem if I need to reschedule a meeting or say, ‘Hey! I’m going to be offline for 30 minutes while I go take care of the situation.’”
Leading by example
While self-care often takes a backseat in Mott’s busy schedule, he recognizes its importance.
“Personal care for me? That’s funny. Sometimes on the reprioritization, that doesn’t happen. That’s kind of like the low priority sometimes,” he admitted with a laugh.
However, he and his wife have a “tag in, tag out” system to help manage stress.
“Sometimes you just need a break. My wife’s really good about telling me, ‘Hey, you seem kind of stressed, maybe take a short break if you need it.’”
Mott often turns to his hobbies like martial arts, weightlifting or cruising in his hot rod for stress relief. Despite the busy schedule, family time remains non-negotiable. Mott intentionally schedules activities with his children, like Cub Scouts and hands-on projects. One of his favorite memories is building a go-kart with his sons.
“It took about six months, but step by step, both my boys were right there, learning how to build something from scratch,” he recalled.
Now, through careful planning and a disciplined schedule, he’s pushing forward, both for himself and as a model for his kids.
Reflecting on life’s journey, Josiah offered advice he’d give his younger self: “You’re capable of a lot more than you think. It just takes setting your mind to it.”
Recognizing motivated parents
The online format of the cyber operations and resilience program helps parents balance school, work and family life. With asynchronous classes, students can complete assignments after their kids are asleep or while they’re at school. The flexibility of learning from home also eliminates the need to commute, giving that time back for parenting, work or rest.
Each course runs for seven weeks, with a built-in break between sessions, providing students time to recharge before beginning the next class.
The program recognizes that career and academic growth doesn’t pause for parenthood. With the right support, motivation and perseverance, these parents prove that career advancement is possible.
Learn more about the cyber operations and resilience program
Boise State’s cyber operations and resilience program can open doors to new opportunities and a brighter future — and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re exploring if an online program is right for you or need help transferring credits, connecting with a student success coach is the perfect first step.
Ready to learn more? Attend one of our online information sessions or contact a student success coach today.
Cyber Operations and Resilience News
Written by Keith Forland