5 Reasons I'm getting an MPA

This post should really be titled "5 Reasons I'm Getting an MPA while also Raising my Newborn Son". I think its pretty obvious why someone decides to get an MPA, but I think the decision is only made harder when you throw a family, specifically kids, into the mix.

1. I love to learn - I have always loved to learn. I was that weird kid who actually enjoyed school in high school. And believe it or not, and fell more in love with learning during college. There is something about being able to choose what you study and learn that I love! I also have this life goal of being the very best version of myself that I possibly can. I know education is a big part of who I am, that higher education can only improve me, and I know I will regret not pursuing a master's degree.

2. My family - specifically Benjamin, and any other future children Dan and I may have. This may seem counter-intuitive. It definitely is easier to not worry about higher education now that Benjamin is in the picture. I want Benjamin to grow up seeing me go to school. I want him to grow up with books stacked around the house and essays up on the computer. I want him to know without a doubt that his mom values education. And I want to do more than just tell him I value education, I want to show him as well. I want Benjamin to be proud of me for working hard and not giving up on an important goal and dream of mine. Benjamin is my everything, and I am really pursuing a higher education so that I can enrich his life.

3. Community - I'm hoping to focus many of my classes on Non-Profit administration because I have always wanted to give back in some way. I think Non-Profit organizations and the work they do to be amazing! Also my Patriarchal Blessing talks about using my intellect to bless the lives of those around me, so I feel compelled to continue pursuing this degree.

4. Timing - I know the timing probably doesn't seem ideal. I'm not single anymore, I'm not very mobile, I have a fair amount of responsibilities that can't be ignored or put aside even for a few moments. BUT, there won't ever be a better time than right now. If I put off getting a masters degree, then I probably won't ever get one. Benjamin won't be out of the picture anytime soon, and after this there will be more children, more responsibility, etc. No time like the present to get things done!!

5. Me, Myself, I - When it all comes down to it, this is something I'm passionate about and I really want to pursue. I think its ok to do things for ourselves once in a while, especially when it also benefits those around us. I'm getting an MPA because I want to get one, plain and simple. I'm excited to learn new things, to improve myself, and to become the best version of myself that I possibly can!!

I'm excited for this new adventure that I will be beginning this fall!! It has been just over a year since I graduated with my Bachelor's degree, and I'm excited to get back into the swing of school and learning! Now I only will have to learn to juggle having a baby, a home, and school all at the same time! It will definitely be a learning and growing experience for this little family of mine!