Scholarship Helps Mom Get Her College Degree

STILLWATER, Minn. - Scholarship Helps Mom Get Her College Degree In today's economy, a college education is more important than ever before. But for working parents, going back to school can be next to impossible. A new scholarship is helping some overcome the financial hurdles of earning an online degree.

After 20 years of running a day care out of her Stillwater home, Delayne Strand is going back to college.

The mother of three is now working towards her Bachelor of Science degree in accounting.

Last year, Strand applied for a scholarship through Project Working Mom. Her essay was one chosen from one of more than 100,000 submitted, earning her a full ride to Everest University in Florida.

Strand said winning the scholarship has changed her life.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 78 percent of single working mothers earn less than $30,000 a year and only 16percent hold a bachelors degree or higher.

This year the program is awarding 60 scholarships worth $2 million dollars.

And while Strand says she loves caring for children, the job offers no change for advancement, no healthcare or retirement program.

She plans to graduate sometime in the next three to five years and hopes the experience will not only allow her to earn more money, but set an example for her kids.

This year Project Working Mom has been expanded to include dads too. The deadline for applications is April 30th.

To learn more about earning a degree online or to apply for the scholarship go to: http://www.elearners.com/projectworkingmom/

Read Strand's essay:

http://moms.elearners.com/blogs/project_working_mom_blog/archive/2008/12/07/project-working-mom-scholarship-winner-delayne-strand.aspx