Should I forego grad school for the time being to be a SAHM?
To get right to the point I got into a dream grad school program that starts in two weeks. I also have a 2.5 month old baby.
The program I’m entering is incredibly rigorous and will require a lot of my time/attention. Average salary when the program is finished in about two years is $150k so it would significantly help financially. I’m lucky enough that my son will not have to enter daycare and will instead be able to be watched by family.
However, the thought of my son spending a majority of time away from me & me having to spend a majority of my time even when I’m with him studying is wrecking me mentally. I can’t even think about going back right now without having an almost panic attack/crying. I feel as if these are his most formative years & the thought of missing any of his milestones makes me sick to my stomach. We have not spent more than 5 mins apart since I gave birth and that is how I like it.
My fiance said I can stay at home because he is worried about my mental health. He makes about $70k+ annually & we live in a LCOL area. My family are divided on what I should do. I know the smart thing financially would be the tough it out & go to school but mentally I don’t know if I’m capable of dividing my attention.
It would not be simple to just reapply in a few years. I would need continuing experience in the field, to retake undergrad classes, & the programs are extremely competitive. Any advice or perspective would be appreciated.