Every September, the Office of Graduate Student Life celebrates our Graduate Parenting Students for National Student Parent Month. This month of programming is dedicated to recognizing the importance of empowering student parents as they balance the demands of academics and family life; raise awareness about the unique challenges they face; and provide opportunities to learn about resources and connect with other graduate student parents.
In celebration of our exceptional parenting graduate students here at Rutgers, The Office of Graduate Student Life is featuring the academic accomplishment and parenting journey of Rimshah J. and Veronica A., two incredible members of our graduate student parent community!
Meet "R" Grad Student Parents
Rimshah Jawad
Rimshah is completing a Master of Public Informatics at the Edward J. Bloustein School of Public Policy. Rimshah's work focuses on the intersection of AI, data, and public good. She recently presented her paper “MOMCare with AI: A Dual Embedding-based RAG-LLM Chatbot for Postpartum Depression” at a conference, and she has another paper, “Unlocking Business Value with Generative AI! Economic Value Assessment for Chatbots and Gen AI ROI Discovery,” scheduled to be presented this fall. Across all her projects, Rimshah's goal is to use technology and data-driven solutions in ways that are practical, equitable, and meaningful for communities and families.
Rimshah is a mom to an 11-year-old daughter and a 6-year-old son. Her children serve as a constant reminder for why she is in graduate school. Rimshah explains "their curiosity, honesty, and resilience keep me grounded. The best part is seeing the world through their eyes; it makes me want to build a future where opportunities are more accessible for all kids, not just my own."
While teaching computer science to high school students, Rimshah often found herself talking about AI and machine learning with her students as these topics became part of their curriculum. She realized that if she wanted to guide them well, she also needed to upskill. That realization, combined with her own desire for a second chance to grow, pushed her toward graduate school. At Rutgers, Rimshah has found a place where she can expand those skills and connect them to real-world impact in the public sector.
Balancing school and parenting is not easy. Rimshah explains that in the beginning, even simple things, like doing grocery runs at Walmart, felt like challenges because everything was so different from what she was used to. The early months of graduate school were tough, but over time she has settled in, found a supportive community, and built friendships that have made such a difference. While there are still nights when she is writing a paper after bedtime routines and mornings when she is squeezing in assignments before school drop-off, Rimshah has discovered that she is stronger and more capable than she ever thought, stating that "each milestone, whether academic or personal, feels more meaningful because of the juggling act behind it." She explains "Motherhood has reshaped me — not just as a student or researcher, but as a human being. It’s taught me patience on the hardest days, empathy when I try to understand experiences different from mine, and practicality in how I approach challenges. Whenever I dive into a project, I find myself asking: how would this affect families like mine, with kids like mine? That perspective keeps me grounded, and it gives my work not only purpose but also heart."
Rimshah notes that the student services staff at Bloustein— Dean Weston, Courtney, Greg, and Andrea— have been an incredible source of support. "From the very beginning, they welcomed me and guided me whenever I felt unsure. My advisor,Professor Clint, who invited me to his family picnic when he first met me with my kids, which meant so much. And my program director, Professor Jim Samuel, has always encouraged and appreciated me in ways that keep me motivated." Rimshah has also found support through the Supporting Parents and Caregivers at Rutgers (SPCR) Graduate Student Organization. She also notes that Assistant Dean Ghada in the Office of Graduate Student Life has been a great source of help, no matter the situation. On top of that, I’ve been lucky to build a wonderful community of friends here, who’ve become some of my strongest support.
Rimshah explains that the challenges she has faced have taught her resilience and the importance of asking for help. She would tell any student parent considering graduate school that while the path is tough, it’s also deeply rewarding. Explaining that "Your children will see your perseverance, and that example is worth every late night and hard moment."
Rimshah hopes that by watching her pursue graduate education, her children will see that it’s never too late to begin again. She wants them to remember that their mom kept going despite the obstacles, and that they, too, can carve out their own opportunities with persistence and courage.
Veronica Armour
Veronica is a PhD student in Library and Information Science in the Department of Library and Information Studies at the School of Communication and Information. She has her MA in Education and after being an instructional designer for many years Veronica found that her interest in learning experience design really fit with human information behavior in information science. Veronia is interested in how students' behaviors around seeking, using, and sharing information, as they develop into young professionals, shape and are shaped by their experiences.
Veronica is a proud mother of 9-and-a-half-year-old twins. She has really enjoyed getting to watch each of her twins develop their own unique personality as they grow. In addition to being a parent and doing her PhD, Veronica also works full time at Rutgers. Having multiple responsibilities has required her to readjust her thinking about what balance means. Veronica explains "I can't organize my day so that I spend equal time on my research, work, and kids. Balance means that I make sure time is spent on all three each day, even if most of my time is spent on area and only little in the other two." She notes that having set regular activities helps, like having a weekly writing group and she works hard to never miss a bedtime.
According to Veronica, her biggest supporter is her husband. When the COVID-19 Lockdown derailed Veronica's PhD application, her husband's encouragement helped her to persist. Veronica also notes that she is able to find a semblance of balance because her husband takes on the lion's share of the housework.
Veronica has found support accross campus. She explains that the faculty at SCI have been wonderful, Matt Weber, Kaitlin Costello, Charles Senteio, Jessica Cheng, and Denise Agosto in particular have kept her grounded and moving along. Veronica's writing group partner, Rachel A., has played a key role in keeping her accountable in her writing habits. Her co-workers in the Alexander Library Undergraduate Education unit have also been a strong source of support, cheering her on everyday. Veronica is especially grateful for her friend Meghan I., explaining "she has been a great work friend and is always there when I need to get out and walk, or need a brain break, or is quick to lend me her academic hood so my daughter can use it for a skit at camp!"
Veronica also notes the Office of Graduate Student Life has helped her to feel seen, explaining "Doing things like this to recognize student parents is really meaningful to me. I do not get to participate in a lot of on-campus activities during the day because I'm working and in the evening my kids need me. But I feel seen because of this office."
For more information about resources for graduate students with children, please visit the pregnant and parenting graduate student resource webpage or contact gradstudentlife@echo.rutgers.edu.
- National Student Parent Month 2025: Celebrating "R" Grad Student Parents
Below are programs and events for parenting graduate students and their families that will run during September 2025 for National Student Parent Month. This initiative is coordinated by the Office of Graduate Student Life in collaboration with Supporting Parents and Caregivers at Rutgers (SPCR) Graduate Student Organization, Office of Title IX, Basic Needs, and CAPS.
Diaper Drive
Tuesday, August 19 – Thursday, September 11
In support of parenting students with infants and toddlers, the Office of Graduate Student Life and Basic Needs will co-host a diaper drive. The drive runs Tuesday, August 19 through Thursday, September 11. We are collecting all sizes, with a higher need for sizes 3, 4, and 5. Diapers can be dropped off at the Basic Needs Center (open 9am-5pm, until 7pm starting 9/2/25) or at one of the Farmer's Markets. On September 4, the Farmer's Market will be held on Morrell Street, next to the College Ave. Student Center, from 11am-4pm. On September 11, the Farmer's Market will occur in the International Lounge in the Busch Student Center, from 11am-4pm.
Thank a Parenting Grad
Monday, September 1 – Tuesday, September 30
For the month of September, acknowledge a graduate student parent superhero by submitting an empowering message of support and recognition of their hard work and commitment juggling the demands of graduate school and family life. Notes will be sent to student from the Office of Graduate Student Life. Submit HERE by September 30.
Meet "R" Grad Student Parents
Monday, September 1 – Tuesday, September 30
During National Student Parent Month, the Office of Graduate Student Life will feature graduate student parents from the different graduate and professional schools, spotlighting their academic work and parenting journey at RU-NB.
How to Thrive as a Pregnant or Parenting Grad Student:
Navigating Protections, Resources & CommunityTuesday, September 16, 2pm – 3pm
Location: Virtual
Register HEREAre you a student who is currently pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or raising children? Join us for this informational session on understanding how Title IX protects you from discrimination. The Office of Graduate Student Life, CAPS, and Basic Needs will also go over available resources and groups to get connected with to build community. Hosted by Title IX, Office of Graduate Student Life, CAPS, and Basic Needs.
Colorful Connections: Family Art Class
Tuesday, September 16, 6pm – 7pm
Location: Virtual
Email nikita.cuvilje@rutgers.edu to registerCelebrate National Student Parent Month with a joyful and creative virtual gathering for student parents and their children! Join Health Outreach, Promotion & Education on Zoom for a guided drawing session where families will follow along with a fun video to create their own version of a Funny Pumpkin Pie, a silly and seasonal character that's sure to spark smiles. This event is all about connection, creativity, and community. No art experience needed. Just bring your imagination and your little ones! Materials provided upon request (email to arrange pick up).
Yoga in the Galleries
Wednesday, September 17, 10am – 11am
Location: Zimmerli Museum, 71 Hamilton St., New Brunswick, College Ave. Campus
No registration required, FREE and open to the publicStudent parents can reset their week with a relaxing, all-levels yoga session in a unique setting surrounded by art.
If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the access provided, please call Nicole Simpson, Access Coordinator, at 848-932-6178 or email nsimpson@zimmerli.rutgers.edu in advance of your participation.
Rutgers Graduate Families Welcome Social
Saturday, September 20, 11:30am – 1:30pm
Location: Graduate Student Lounge, 126 College Ave. (Behind Panera Bread), New Brunswick, College Ave. Campus
Register HERENew and returning graduate student families are invited to a special welcome event hosted by the Office of Graduate Student Life and the Student Parents and Caregivers at Rutgers (SPCR) Graduate Student Organization. This is a great opportunity to meet other grad families and enjoy an afternoon of food and fun!
Activities include:
- Pizza and Popsicles
- Fun games and crafts for children sponsored by Scarlet Arts Rx
- Socializing and info-sharing for parents
Supporting Parents & Caregivers at Rutgers (SPCR): Virtual Lunch
Monday, September 22, 12pm - 1pm
Location: Virtual
RSVP HEREJoin SPCR for their first official meeting via Zoom. Get to know about the organization, meet other parenting/caregiving peers, and discuss available resources for students in and around campus. Attendees will receive a $15 reimbursement for lunch.
Ultimo Domingo Celebration at the Zimmerli Museum
Sunday, September 28, 1pm – 3pm
Location: Zimmerli Museum, 71 Hamilton St., New Brunswick, College Ave. Campus
No registration required, FREE and open to the publicÚltimo Domingo (Last Sunday) is a series celebrating Latinx culture and invites bilingual communities to come together through the experience of art. Explore our stunning exhibitions, create art, and enjoy interactive performances.
This free event is open to all ages and communities. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to honor and experience the rich cultural heritage of the Latinx community. Complimentary light refreshments offered. Contact Info: education@zimmerli.rutgers.edu
Reminder of two resources available to our pregnant and parenting students.
Title IX Legal Protections
Students experiencing pregnancy or a related condition, including childbirth, false pregnancy, loss, termination, and subsequent recovery are entitled to equal access to education, employment, and university programs and activities. Students experiencing pregnancy or a related condition (including partners, foster, and adoptive parents) are encouraged to reach out to the team at the Title IX office to discuss their rights to reasonable accommodations using THIS form, emailing nbtitleix@rutgers.edu, or by calling 848-932-8200. The Team at the Title IX Office are here to help you. Click HERE to learn more about resources, accommodations, or support available to pregnant and parenting students.
Resource Webpage
The Office of Graduate Student Life, in partnership with the Office of Title IX & Compliance, and Supporting Parents & Caregivers at Rutgers (GSO), created a webpage that serves as a platform for helping pregnant and parenting students locate resources, policies, support services, and community engagement opportunities available at Rutgers University and in the local community. Click HERE to visit the webpage.
This webpage was last updated on October 27, 2025.
