Eun Kyung (EK) Choi is a full-time graduate student in the Inclusive Early Childhood Education Program at George Mason University, and a student parent. EK is also the winner of the Dr. Alan and Sally Merten Family of the Year Award! Keep reading to learn more about EK’s family, and their experience at George Mason.
When asked why she nominated her family for this award, EK shares, “I’m very thankful to my husband.”
Moving from South Korea, EK’s husband worked for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea with a posting to the Embassy in Washington, DC. After getting married and making this big move, EK chose to pursue a teaching license with the goal of working at international schools around the world.
However, EK’s pursuit of a new degree became uncertain after she gave birth; “I wasn’t sure how I could finish my master’s degree.” That’s when her husband stepped in, deciding to “take a year of parental leave to care for our baby. And it allowed me to focus on my studies. Without his support, it would not have been easy to take my current classes or prepare for my internship next semester.” Thanks to this support, EK has successfully completed her Praxis tests for her internships!
EK lives with her husband and baby in Masonvale, and enjoys walking around Fairfax campus with her baby in a stroller.
Her family also enjoys exploring Virginia’s many beautiful parks, noting, “We often walk to Old Town, especially the Fairfax Regional Library, and stop by De Clieu Coffee & Sandwiches for a treat… when we don’t feel like cooking, we eat at Southside or Ike’s.” EK also peruses Mason360 for fun events to attend as a family.
Being part of the George Mason community as both a student and a mom has been a meaningful journey. I hope my story encourages other students who are balancing school and family life.
Eun Kyung Choi
For fellow students balancing family and school, EK shares the following advice:
- Take Care of Your Health: Parenting is a whole new world. No matter how much support you have, it takes energy. I used to stay up finishing work all night and start work early in the morning, and that was my joy. But I can’t do that anymore, haha. I’ve learned to take care of my body and rest when I can. This season of life is different, but it’s precious and full of gratitude.
- Share the Responsibilities: Parenting is not a solo journey. My husband and family’s support has made it possible for me to continue my studies. I also try to respect my husband’s personal time, like going to the gym or seeing friends. It helps us both.
- Use the System: In my case, my husband was able to take one year of paid parental leave, which made this balance possible. In Korea, parents can usually take one year of paid leave plus up to two additional years of unpaid leave. Because this system was so familiar to me, I didn’t fully realize how meaningful it was. However, after talking with Colleen Vesely, my Engaging Families of Diverse Learners professor, I truly came to appreciate not only the existence of this system but also the supportive environment that allows us to use it.
- Find a Supportive Community: I truly appreciate the welcoming community at George Mason. My professors and classmates have supported me during pregnancy, childbirth, and this parenting season. Special thanks to professor Bweikia Steen for creating a warm and inclusive class, to professor Carly Fisher-Maltese for her kindness during my delivery time, and to my friend Jialin for her care before and after birth. Last but not least, to my academic advisor, Kayla Turner, and internship coordinator, Amanda Davis, for constantly checking on me and handling my situations. Families of the Korean Embassy and friends from the diplomatic community have also been so kind. They brought food, took me on little trips to Baltimore, and even bought my favorite bingsoo from Soricha Tea & Theater. I’ve truly felt cared for.