Babies and Books

Roshanta Lock had no plans of becoming a mother while trying to complete a degree at Fayetteville State University. "It was a surprise," said the sophomore. But now Lock has had to adjust her whole life. "I actually changed my major to one that I could complete online so that I will be able to stay home." Thousands of young women have to make these kinds of adjustments every year. According to the American Pregnancy Association, 468,988 babies are born to teenage mothers annually. "It's hard to, keep doing this. It's like, ugh, I wanna give up," said Lock.Lock isn't giving up and has learned pregnancy doesn't have to mean the end of the goal of achieving higher education. In 2007, FSU substance abuse education consultant, Debra Jordan, established a single and expecting parent support group
here on campus specifically for students, but Jordan says the program doesn't get the attention it needs. "I kept hearing retention, retention, we need to keep students here. So I thought who's talking
to pregnant students about staying in college?"

The goal of the support group is to establish a support system among pregnant students while at the same time provide them with the encouragement and resources needed to remain in school. "I want to see students graduate, stay in school and network together. Maybe even help with child care amongst themselves. That could happen."

Jordan works hard to make life easier for these students. Whether it's talking to different businesses and organizations, about grant money for childcare, or inviting local agencies to present the services they provide that could benefit group members. The single and expecting support group is just the first step for Jordan. "I hope to see this one day become an organization," says Jordan.

Lock has some words of wisdom for students. "If you're not prepared for it, or you don't think you would be able to handle being pregnant and going to school, protect yourself however you can.