An Academic Pursuit
Madam SuAnn’s journey of returning to college at 47 while balancing motherhood is truly inspiring. It beautifully illustrates the never-ending potential for growth, regardless of age. Thank you for sharing your journey and for encouraging others to never see age as a barrier to their dreams. We hope readers of all ages are able to take inspiration from your submission!
As I sit here typing out my story, I'm surrounded by textbooks, notebooks, and a sense of accomplishment that's hard to put into words. I'm 47, a mother, and currently a university student. It's an unusual combination, but it is my reality, and I couldn't be prouder!
Growing up, university seemed like a distant dream, and it was. My family's struggles meant that after high school, I had to get a job. The slowing of the economy back home meant I had to grow up faster than those in first world countries. My idea of higher education was tucked away in a corner of my heart, but it never really left me. Each passing year, the desire to learn, to grow, and to achieve something more got stronger and stronger.
The turning point came from the least expected source - my daughter. One evening, as I helped her with her primary school homework, she asked, "Mom, why didn't you go to uni?" She wanted to know why I encouraged her to pursue a post-secondary education when I hadn’t gone myself. That innocent question hit me like a wave. It wasn't judgment in her voice, but curiosity. I realized then that the best way to teach her to chase her dreams was to chase mine. Saving up for university was not an easy task. I worked extra hours, cut down on unnecessary expenses, and slowly, my college fund grew. I also have my supporting and compassionate husband to thank. Without him, my dream would have stayed a dream. The day I enrolled, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. Walking into my first class, I was well aware of my age, but that didn't last long.
The university experience was nothing like I'd feared! My classmates were curious, accepting, and inspiring in their own ways. I never felt like the odd one out (even though I was). But it didn’t matter. I realized that in a classroom, everyone's on the same journey of self-improvement, regardless of age. There were moments of doubt, of course. Times when I wondered if I was being foolish, pursuing a dream so late in life. But then I'd remember my reasons - my daughter, my dreams, and the years I spent hoping for this opportunity. And here's the thing about age – it's just a number. You can be 50 with or without a degree, but the choice to pursue your dreams is what truly defines you. I choose to be 50 with a degree, with a sense of fulfillment and a story to tell my daughter about perseverance and the pursuit of dreams, no matter what.
My academic pursuit has taught me that it's never too late. If there's a dream in your heart, a want or need to learn, to grow, to change your life – go for it. Age is not a barrier; it's just a part of who you are. Embrace it and let it fuel your journey to new beginnings! Remember, every classroom has a story. Mine was about a mother, a dream deferred, and a second chance. Yours might be different, but still, it is equally important. Don't let the number of candles on your birthday cake stop you from lighting up your world with knowledge and new experiences.
Today, as I balance assignments and parenting, I feel more alive than ever. Education has given me a new perspective, a renewed sense of purpose. It's not just about getting a degree; it's about showing my daughter, and perhaps more importantly, myself, that dreams have no expiration date. So, to anyone out there thinking it's too late, I can assure you, it's not. Whether you're 30, 40, or even 60, education is a path that is open to all. Take that path and let it transform you. After all, we're all students of life, and in this great classroom, age truly means nothing.