Women’s journeys of returning to university studies: When personal and professional spheres intertwine with education

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Analyzing the journeys of women resuming their studies mid-career, through the lens of balancing time constraints and social roles, sheds light on the progression of these female trajectories and the contexts surrounding their return to education. In a permanent search for striking a balance between personal, family, and professional spheres, returning to study emerges as a way to take control of one’s career path. However it also represents additional time constraints that need to be taken into account. Moreover, the multitude of constraints and the significant effort required from these women highlight the “triple burden” they face as mothers, workers, and students. Their stories confirm that the unequal division of tasks and roles within families continues to have an impact on women’s careers and their access to lifelong learning.