����vlog

Through this photo essay — part of an ongoing series — we highlight how Montclair students, faculty and staff embody the University’s mission in the classroom, on campus and beyond – empowering a diverse community by providing broad access to rigorous learning, advancing research and creativity, and forming partnerships for the common good.

Oscaterin Bautista begins her day at 5 a.m., carving out quiet hours to study before her four children wake. At 35, she balances motherhood, a full-time job and a double major at ����vlog – all while championing young children’s school readiness. This documentary photo essay follows her journey in her own words, capturing the determination, setbacks and inspiration fueling her pursuit of higher education.

“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,” she says. As told to Marilyn Joyce Lehren

Study Time

Even if I only get three hours of sleep, I know it’s worth it. Soon, I’ll have my degree and that will open more doors for us. I want my kids to see that it’s possible.”

I remind myself this is a temporary sacrifice ... I want to be a role model for my kids – I can’t expect them to be something I’m not.”

Breakfast and Family Routine

I’m really thankful for my kids; they help me a lot. My 15-year-old takes care of the younger ones when I have evening classes.”

On the Job: Advocating for Families

We have families of every background. I see the worries and the hopes. My job is to remind them help is not a punishment and you are not alone.”

I have a caseload of 113 families. I help them with self-assessments and services, even paperwork they’re afraid to fill out. Sometimes I see what’s missing – maybe a child isn’t getting vaccines or a family needs food. If I can, I help them in my office – especially if they’re afraid of being misunderstood or if there are language barriers.”

I keep the notes as special reminders of my connection with the children, especially throughout their journey to kindergarten. I’ve been part of some families’ lives for one to three years, and when they leave our program, a real connection remains – because I see their faces daily and a bond is built. Creating an impact on the little ones is truly priceless, even if they might not remember me when they grow up.”

Evening: Family, Homework and Baseball

I’m there as his number one fan, even if he strikes out.”

Back to School

At first, I was scared to go back to college. I was 30 with four children, surrounded by classmates half my age. But I met others like me and I learned I wasn’t alone.”

The support from professors and the resources available have prepared me to grow stronger as a family advocate … Sometimes, while working on ourselves, we can lose sight of who we are, but the feedback from my professors reminds me of who I want to become and why I am here.”

After I graduate, I want to get my master’s in social work and create a nonprofit that makes sure no family falls through the cracks. I want to use my experiences to make things easier for other families. If I’ve struggled, so have others – and no one should face that journey alone.”

for a more complete look at Oscaterin’s day as a mother, student and family advocate.

Are You Ready to Start Your Montclair Journey?

• Plan your visit and  in applying to become a Red Hawk!