Dr. Jonathan Koppell, President at Montclair State University | https://www.montclair.edu/
Dr. Jonathan Koppell, President at Montclair State University | https://www.montclair.edu/
Oscaterin Bautista, a 35-year-old student at Montclair State University, manages the responsibilities of motherhood, full-time employment, and pursuing a double major. Her daily routine begins at 5 a.m., allowing her to study before her four children wake up. Bautista is also committed to supporting young children's readiness for school.
The university’s ongoing photo essay series documents the lives of students, faculty, and staff as they work toward the institution’s mission: providing broad access to rigorous learning, advancing research and creativity, and forming partnerships that benefit the community.
“I’m grateful to contribute to something meaningful, to inspire others to begin their educational journey and to show that it’s never too late if we have the motivation and desire to grow,” Bautista says.
Bautista's story is presented through photographs by Mike Peters and was told in collaboration with Marilyn Joyce Lehren. The essay highlights moments from her day including early morning study sessions, family routines at breakfast, advocacy work on behalf of families during her job hours, evening activities balancing homework with family time and baseball games, and returning to school.
Prospective students interested in starting their own academic path at Montclair State University can find information about planning campus visits or beginning an application process by visiting https://www.montclair.edu/admissions/visit-us/.
Alerts Sign-up