To Benefit Self, Family And Community: Going Back To School In My 40’s

(This blog post was originally written in 2022 and has been updated to reflect my current journey.)

Nearly two years ago, I made the decision to return to school, after a 20 year absence, to complete my goal of completing college. I was a little hesitant due to being in my 40’s a whole host of adult duties, but I ultimately decided this would be too good of an opportunity to pass.

Related to my decision was my job’s offer to pay 100% tuition for me to return to school for both undergraduate and graduate degrees(If I choose) as well. I completed all of the requirements to register for classes and started 12-1-21.

I entered a program called “college success”, which included 5 courses for new or returning college students. I was able to work through these 5 courses without too much hardship.

During my time in the “college success” program, I gained an appreciation and desire to go into a tech direction. I later enrolled in a bootcamp to get my certs in “digital marketing” and “coding”.

As of 2024, I am moving in the direction to receive my undergraduate degrees in a tech related field.

A little about my background. I only made it to the 10th grade of school and I officially quit school when I was 17 years old. I was just another statistical high school drop out, black man.

However, I had a spiritual and mental transformation when I accepted Islam on March 20th, 1996, which inspired me to return to school to get my GED(high school equivalency diploma).

I was then told to enroll in college, however I was not greatly motivated to continue due to not having a stronger purpose other than someone’s expectation of me.

Without any major declaration, I completed some general course work, but I eventually “dropped out” in 2001.

So, here I stand as a former high school drop out and now college “drop out”, but in my 40’s I will correct the latter.

This is my major “motivation” of why I am returning to school. I am not returning to school, necessarily, for a job or career advancement, however I am returning to complete my story from being a high school drop out to becoming a college graduate. This is my “WHY”.

I feel more confidant and excited going to school in my 40’s than I did previously, because of this great “WHY” that I have.

I was told by some of my work colleagues that with my college degree and experience, I would be able to climb the ladder of career success easily. I laughed and said to myself, “Or, I can use this knowledge, degree, to build my business, better my family and community.”

According to an article “Educators of the world: Educe!” by Mr. Daniel Ostergren the real purpose of education is given.

“In fact, the word “education” is built on the word “educe,” which means to draw out, bring out, or elicit. It also means to evolve something from a potential state. And, that is what education does best: it brings out potentials.”

My three strong compelling reasons for seeking a college education at this time are: 

First, I have a strong desire to prove to myself that I can transition from being a college dropout to becoming a college graduate. I also would like to demonstrate to my children the importance of education by being an example in attaining this higher education.

Second, As a business owner and growing entrepreneur, I know that the knowledge attained while seeking a college degree would only benefit me in my business pursuits. 

Third, As a member of the Black community, I believe in giving back, therefore I also have altruistic reasons for seeking my college education. I believe business is important and a viable component of a healthy community, so I will be able to share my wealth of knowledge, attained by my college education, with the Black community.

A great benefit to me in this journey to achieve my degree is modern technology, in the form of the internet, my smartphone, YouTube and online discussion groups.

Technology has made it possible for me to attend school virtually.

My smart phone has allowed me to do school work on the go.

YouTube has allowed me to get help from instructional videos.

And, online discussion groups have allowed me to reach out to fellow student like myself.

I ultimately desire to use all the accumulated knowledge I gain from my education program to use in my own business, my family business and to help my community at large in being astute in business.

Let’s stay in touch

Thank you for joining me on this tech journey! If you’re hungry for more insights, information, and inspiration in the world of tech and digital knowledge, let’s stay connected.

Feel free to reach out for consultations, or simply to share your thoughts and ideas. 

Together, let’s navigate the ever-evolving landscape of technology. Connect with me on [Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn], and let’s continue this exciting conversation. Stay curious, stay informed, and let tech empower your journey. Looking forward to connecting with you soon!