Connect What is the most rewarding part of being a mom?

The most rewarding part of being a mom is watching your child become their own person. There is nothing I’m more proud of than seeing my teenager think independently, having her own values, seeing her protect her boundaries and stand by what she thinks is right. Raising a person who is not a thoughtless follower but an independent thinker is the best thing I could have ever done.

What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you?

Motherhood taught me that I can. I used to think of myself as weak both physically and mentally. But after my daughter was born I did things I never thought I could. I didn’t sleep through the night for the first two years of her life, I learned how to kill bugs to protect her, I made sure to finish nursing school and keep going back to school while working and taking care of her so I can give her a better life. If it wasn’t for being a mom, I would never have believed in myself as much as I do.

What would you do with $20,000?

I’m currently receiving my second masters degree, this time in business. The program costs $30,000, I’m paying it as I go. With $20,000 I could pay off the rest of my school and even have some money left over. The best gift I can give my daughter is an educated mother who sets an example and succeeds. That’s what I’m doing by going back to school and building my business.