Two babies, two jobs, and two majors: a UIndy student stays busy
Sophomore Amanda Edwards is a full-time college student, full time employee and a single parent of two baby boys. As a pregnant 2009 graduate of Manual High School, Edwards decided to further her education by attending the University of Indianapolis.
At 17 years-old, while still in high school, Edwards had her first son, Christopher, who is now three. Two years later, at age 19, Edwards gave birth to her second son, Carson, who is now one-and-a-half. Throughout both pregnancies, Edwards maintained straight A’s.
Edwards currently lives with her mother, who helps take care of Carson and Christopher.
“If it wasn’t for my mother and grandparents, I wouldn’t know what to do,” Edwards said.
Edwards’ mother, Debbie Debolt, explained that her daughter came to UIndy to further her education.
“My first priority for Amanda is graduating from college to make a good life for her and her boys,” Debolt said.
Taking on two part-time jobs, a management position at one local Wendy’s and a cashier position at the other, Edwards manages to do everything in her power to provide for her children. She works 40 to 45 hours per week and takes 18 credit hours at UIndy.
“It’s not easy trying to be mommy and daddy,” Debolt said.
According to Debolt, Edwards tries to be “super mom.” She comes home and does homework at all hours of the night.
Edwards is a double major in management and event planning, with a minor in service learning.
Edwards is almost done with her service learning minor.
“I love service learning; I get to meet all types of people and hear their stories,” she said.
Her service learning minor consists of taking classes and participating in different community service projects in her area.
Edwards also loves UIndy.
“It’s the right university for me. I take advantage of every opportunity that comes along my way,” she said.
Edwards will continue being a full-time student, holding down two part-time jobs and taking care of her “little angels” until she graduates in 2013.
She will continue to take classes in the summer and handle a large workload with two young ones all at the same time.
After graduating from the university, she plans to own her own business combining her interests of party planning and entertainment.
“I want a schedule that works with my family and life in general,” Edwards said.
Candy Jackson, a family friend, is extremely impressed with Edwards.
“Amanda has matured tremendously out of necessity. She lost the luxury life of being a young adult, but this just made her a stronger person and mother,” Jackson said.
