Jess Fitchett has taken on the challenge of being a single mother of two children while pursuing higher education. Despite the demands of parenting and studying, Fitchett is determined to succeed and create a better future for herself and her family.
At Colorado State University, Fitchett is a full-time student, juggling the responsibilities of attending classes, completing assignments and studying for exams. She is working toward a degree in communication studies with a minor in sociology. At home, Fitchett is a mother to 9-year-old Jackson and 6-year-old Alyanna.
Fitchett’s typical day starts at 6:30 in the morning when she gets Jackson and Alyanna up and ready for the day. Afterward, it’s off to school for both Fitchett and her children. She tries to connect with Jackson and Alyanna every morning during school drop-off. She does things such as asking a fun question or playing a funny song on the drive to school.
Next comes either homework or class for Fitchett, depending on the day. During breaks between classes, she gets as much done as she can before she has to begin double duty again.
After a day of class, she picks Jackson and Alyanna up from school, and they begin their nighttime routine. First on the list is a chore for each kid. Occasionally, Fitchett treats them to dinner in front of the TV, where they watch an episode of America’s Funniest Home Videos.
Bedtime consists of reading a book, brushing teeth and going to bed around 8 p.m. Afterward Fitchett musters all her energy to complete her homework and housework.
“I’ve had a really long, really hard life,” Fitchett said. “I’m kind of coming out of that season of my life and coming into one where I’m focusing on myself and my kids. When I started college, I thought of it as a stamp on a resume. Like, you have to have it or else your resume won’t get looked at. But since I’ve started, I’ve really learned a lot, and it’s opened my eyes up to so much more.”
Reach Avery Coates at photo@collegian.com or on Twitter @csucollegian.