Celebrating National Student Parent Month

Matt Dorner is an Arizona Online student earning his bachelor’s in Business Administration from the Eller College of Management. He is also the father of a one- and three-year-old and manages a new full-time career in medical sales!

Matt says that the key to balancing being a parent and a student is scheduling. That’s why Matt needs a flexible education. “I can put my son down for a nap, wake him up, and accomplish one or two hours' worth of lectures or homework without him realizing I was busy with school."

Pursuing higher education has always been Matt's long-term goal. Matt shares that his parents began their careers with very little post-secondary education. But while raising Matt and his sisters, his Mom became a 'Superintendent' with a PhD, and his dad became 'Chief/ Director' with a master's.

“Similarly, I started a career as a firefighter with an Associate's Degree. I have recently pivoted toward a career in business, and as my parents proved possible, I will continue to open doors with more education."

two adults each holding a small child in their arms

Matt with his wife and children.

two adults each holding a small child with Halloween costumes on

Being a Student Parent

While looking for a college as a parent, Matt suggests looking for an option that is truly flexible in the ways you need for your situation.

“Adding college coursework can make any schedule arduous. It has been extremely important for me to access resources like live lectures and reviews recorded and posted for convenience, the ability to take proctored exams 24 hours a day, and professors who offer weekend office hours.