Written by Anna Yuliana
I am a mum of two boys, aged three and six, and I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education and Care (0–5 years). This journey shows that life circumstances do not have to stop us from achieving our dreams and following our passion.
Choosing to study was not a decision I made alone. It was something we discussed and agreed on as a family—my husband, my children, and me. One of the biggest questions before starting was whether I would receive a scholarship. Once that was confirmed, it gave us the confidence to move forward.
We chose Charles Sturt University because I had heard from a friend that they are highly experienced in online learning and provide strong support, being accessible, responsive, and informative. Another important factor was the accelerated pathway. Instead of the usual four years, I can complete my degree in two years thanks to my prior experience as a room leader in early childhood education.
My daily life is a constant balancing act. I start work early, opening the centre at 6:30 am or closing it at 6 pm. I juggle work, study, and family responsibilities—school and daycare drop-offs and pick-ups, leading a team, planning curriculum, writing reflections, and making leadership decisions. At night, I shift into my roles at home and as a student. Most of my study happens after 9 pm, once my boys are asleep.
The workload is intense, but it is deeply meaningful. Over time, it has started to feel like a calling. What I learn through my studies immediately connects to my work. Topics such as children’s rights, wellness, and wellbeing are not just theories—they shape my daily practice. Research informs my decisions, and reflection strengthens my leadership. In this way, learning and teaching continuously influence each other. It is about shaping children’s development during their most important early years.
After completing my first three months of study in late 2025, I can say that the online system at Charles Sturt has been incredibly supportive. The flexibility, especially access to recorded lectures, has made a huge difference in how I manage my time. The lecturers are responsive and genuinely supportive of our learning journey, for example, by providing a tutoring program before assessment submission.
Our family teamwork has also been essential. My husband helps me stay on track by reminding me of tutor sessions, assessment deadlines, and online presentations—things that are easy to forget when balancing life as a full-time worker, student, mum, and wife. Having that support makes a big difference.
Studying while leading and parenting is challenging. But when learning aligns with purpose, the journey becomes deeply meaningful. This is not something to minimise—it is something to honour. It is a shared effort, a showcase of a beautiful story of growth, and a reflection of discipline, courage, and commitment.
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