For many adult learners, returning to school after years away from the classroom can be both challenging and rewarding. Balancing work, finances and family responsibilities while pursuing a degree often requires determination and sacrifice.
At the University of the District of Columbia, digital media student Remi Bamidele discusses returning to school 24 years after leaving college, reflecting on the personal and academic adjustments that come with reentering the classroom later in life.
Bamidele said his decision to continue his education was motivated by both personal growth and a promise he made to his daughter years ago.
“I dropped out of school 24 years ago,” Remi Bamidele said. “I promised her that I was going to go back to school. She’s 24 now.”
In addition to fulfilling that promise, Bamidele said he wanted to remain competitive in a world shaped by technology and digital media.
“One of the first things that motivated me to go back to school was just to better myself,” he said.
Having lived in Washington, D.C., for more than 20 years, Bamidele said choosing UDC was both a personal and financial decision.
“This is home for me,” he said. “I love the city, the culture and the people.”
Like many adult learners, Bamidele has balanced school with work, finances and family obligations while continuing to pursue his passion for digital media and production work.
Throughout his journey, he emphasized the importance of pursuing education with passion and purpose.
“If it’s passion, it’s not work,” Bamidele said. “You find yourself waking up earlier and showing up ready to learn.”
Bamidele encouraged others considering a return to school to research affordable options and take the first step toward progress.
“You cannot just dream of progress and expect it to happen,” he said.
For The Trilogy News, Darrion Beckles reported this story.
