Earning a degree while working and raising a family is no small feat. This balancing act requires constant motivation, even in the face of exhaustion, stress and the urge to give up. For many students in Boise State University’s online cyber operations and resilience program, this is the reality they navigate every day.
Late-night study sessions, overlapping commitments, moments of self-doubt — and even the occasional baby-related mess — are all part of the experience. Despite the challenges, these student-parents press on with determination, adaptability and perseverance.
A new path for the future
Keegan Mosey’s journey into cybersecurity has been full of challenges and triumphs.
“I started college in Arizona, met my husband and moved to Clifton, Idaho, where we have currently lived for several years,” she said. “With the economy pushing me to do more than just get by, I knew I had to change my situation so my kids could have options beyond the basics.”
That realization led her to change both her educational and professional trajectories.
After a disappointing experience with another school’s online cyber program that felt distant and impersonal, she began looking for something better. “My brother, who teaches in Meridian, recommended Boise State University as an option,” she explained.
When she connected with Boise State’s student success coaches, she felt a level of care and support that resonated with her. That connection led her to enroll in the cyber operations and resilience program in the spring of 2023.
Resilience, routine and setting the example
Since then, each day has been a balancing act. “I try to do classwork during the day, but plans shift and change, and I often finish at night or on weekends,” she said. “Since my kids are homeschooled, they require much of my time. My husband takes care of them around five so I can focus on school later in the day. However, constant interruptions are common. I manage my coursework one task at a time.”
Though every day brings new challenges, Mosey’s determination to provide her family a better quality of life keeps her going.
She makes it clear that her hard work is not just about her future. “It is important for them to see that even when I do things I do not enjoy, I do it for our future. Every day, I have endless tasks from morning until night with no true downtime, and I have to schedule my off time carefully.”
Despite the demands of caring for others, small moments remind her why it’s all worth it — like her oldest daughter buying a coding book, inspired by her mom’s dedication.
“I would be studying my coursework, and my daughter would lay down next to me and study her coding book,” she said. “That is where it really set in, that I am setting a good example for them and their future will benefit from it.”
Mosey chose cybersecurity because of her personal health challenges. Living with multiple sclerosis, a disease that affects the protective covering of nerves and can cause numbness, weakness, trouble with walking and vision changes, meant she needed a career that could adapt to her needs. Cybersecurity offers her both stability and flexibility, whether she is working at a desk or from a wheelchair someday.
“Even during the most difficult of times, I am reminded of how important this journey is when I see my family’s future in a better place.”
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