Balancing college life and pregnancy presents unique challenges, but with the right support, student moms can thrive both academically and personally. Colleges have a powerful opportunity to empower these students by creating a culture of inclusion and offering meaningful resources. Here are several impactful ways campuses can step up to support pregnant and parenting students:
1. Peer Support Groups
Creating spaces for pregnant and parenting students to connect with one another fosters a sense of community and shared understanding. Support groups can be organized through student organizations, counseling services, or informal meetups.
2. Family-Friendly Facilities
Ensuring campus facilities accommodate the needs of pregnant students and young parents is essential. Designated lactation rooms, baby-changing stations, and family-friendly lounges can make campuses more inclusive.
3. Clear Communication of Rights
Pregnant students are protected under Title IX, which prohibits discrimination based on pregnancy or parenting status. Colleges should actively communicate these rights and ensure faculty and staff are trained to uphold them.
4. Career and Life Skills Workshops
Workshops on time management, budgeting, and parenting can empower pregnant students to navigate their responsibilities effectively. These skills not only support their current needs but also prepare them for life beyond graduation.
5. Partnerships with Community Organizations
Colleges can collaborate with local nonprofits, healthcare providers, and government agencies to expand the resources available to pregnant students. These partnerships can provide additional support services, including housing assistance, parenting classes, and medical care.
A powerful example of this kind of partnership is MiraVia’s College Residence, located on the campus of Belmont Abbey College in North Carolina. MiraVia offers free housing, meals, counseling, life-skills classes, and a supportive community to pregnant college students, allowing them to continue their education without sacrificing stability or care. By working with organizations like MiraVia, colleges can better meet the complex needs of pregnant and parenting students while helping them thrive both academically and personally.
Supporting pregnant students is not just about offering resources. It’s about creating a culture of understanding and empowerment. By taking proactive steps to meet their unique needs, colleges can help ensure that pregnancy does not become a barrier to academic and personal success.