Raising Child Additional Challenge For UA Students
By Dru Glaze
Lemke Ledger Staff
On a normal day, the halls of the UA journalism department are filled with students carrying books, bags and the occasional cup of coffee or soda. For Bree and Henry Adams, however, in addition to the usual backpack and books they also carry their son, Cooper, and all the things that go along with caring for a baby.
Bree Adams, a UA journalism major, often brings son Cooper to work with her as
secretary for the Lemke Journalism Department. — Dru Glaze/Ledger
Bree, a junior journalism major with a concentration in broadcast, and Henry, a senior history major, have each worked as the department secretary for a combined four years. When Cooper was born in September they had to figure out a way to go to school and take care of "Coop," as he has been nicknamed. The department agreed to allow the couple to bring Cooper to work with them.
Bree and Henry said Cooper spends between 15 and 20 hours a week in the department.
“We are very lucky and fortunate,” they said. "There are very few workplaces that allow children. Henry said that if they could not bring Cooper to work, “one of us would have to stay home.”
“We can’t afford a babysitter,” Bree added.
At first, Bree was worried that Cooper might disturb the faculty, but she says he's turned out to be a really good baby.
“I’m glad everyone has accepted him they way they do,” Bree said. "All of the faculty speak to him at least once a day.”
“I like Cooper,” said Prof. Hoyt Purvis, who called the child an interesting addition to the workplace.
Henry and Bree said that once Henry graduates and has a job they will be able to afford a babysitter.
But for now, the couple is thankful the department has adjusted.
“Not everyone is as lucky as we are,” Henry said.