You don’t have to choose between your family and your education; here at WSU, we celebrate both! Students Who Are Parents (SWAP) is an interest group that promotes connection and support for those balancing their education with their roles as parents or caregivers.
Students Who Are Parents (SWAP) is a supportive community for student parents at Wichita State University. We're currently gathering details and building our community.
Our goal is to provide a safe and welcoming space where students can connect, share experiences, and find resources to navigate the challenges and rewards of balancing academic pursuits with family life. Join SWAP today and become part of a vibrant community that understands the unique challenges and triumphs of being a student parent or caregiver.
Did You Know?
- 1 in 5 college students are parents nationwide (1)
- Over half of student parents (53 percent) have children who are preschool-aged or younger (under age 6). (1)
- Student parents tend to have higher grade point averages (GPAs) than their non-parenting peers. (2)
- 66% of parenting students work full-time or more while simultaneously attending school, studying, and caring for their children. (2)
Meet Mason
Mason, a 35-year-old father of two, is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biology. He transitioned from arborist to aircraft manufacturing to support his family, but his love for nature led him back to biology. Despite a busy schedule balancing school, work, and family, Mason enjoys spending time with his loved ones and pursuing his passions.
Meet Cindy
Cindy, a resilient Shocker student-parent returned to college after a life-altering family crisis. As a neurodiverse learner raising neurodiverse teens, Cindy draws strength from her faith, family, and community to pursue her goals and inspire others.
Her advice to fellow student-parents?
"Budget your time wisely and use your support network—no matter how much you think
you can do it on your own, you can't."