Experienced Work/Student Moms, I Need Advice!

Hi Everyone!

I am in a bit of a dilemma that could be a blessing in disguise. I am currently 35 weeks pregnant (with my first) and still working for one more week until I leave for maternity leave. Also, working on my bachelors!

I currently have the option to stay home and just focus on school as my boyfriend is able to provide for us to live comfortably. But, I love my current job and is in the field that I am pursuing through school. I’m gaining experience and have a foot in the door already.

If I go back to work, it will be more time away from baby, more drop offs at the baby sitter, and on top of schooling (which is drive 50 minutes to going and coming back). I’m not sure if I’m going to be to mentally ready to take on all 3, and keeping up with the home (seems impossible). I plan to breastfeed/ pump too! It has decent pay (which I would not get anywhere else if I decide to go back into work force after some time) but either way, all or most of it would go to paying for a sitter.

However, I feel like if I stop going to work, I will loose out on the experience and looking good on applications for Masters programs. Plus, my job is enjoyable! I feel weird asking my boyfriend for money to buy things for myself, I want to have that financial independence.

I feel like I’m choosing between my career and my baby 😞

What would you do?