Last updated on April 24, 2025
What was your experience like returning to college after being away for so long?
Yes, I’ve been to college before. My first attempt was as a pre-med major in the 90’s, living at home. But honestly, I wasn’t focused. I was more interested in moving out of the house and gaining my independence, so I went that direction.
Once I moved out and had bills to pay, school quickly became secondary to work. I started working in sales and marketing, telemarketing, advertising, PR, you name it, I’ve sold it. But even while I was working, I knew I’d need to go back to school to break through the ceiling I kept hitting.
I moved to Dallas from Fort Worth about two years ago, and when I found out what Dallas College offered, the cost, convenience, and value, it just made sense. As they say, the math was mathing. I’ve gone against the grain enough in life, and this felt like one decision I didn’t need to complicate
What has been the biggest challenge for you in returning to school?
Honestly, the biggest challenge has been managing my time, especially with online classes. It’s a double-edged sword. It’s flexible, but dangerous if you’re not disciplined. It took me a while to figure out how much time I needed to dedicate to my studies. Once I got the hang of it, things started improving. My GPA is good, but I’m always pushing for better.
How have you found fitting in as a non-traditional student?
Yeah, at 51 years old I’m often the oldest person in the room. But it hasn’t been an issue. I’m just myself, and I give younger students credit, they can tell if you’re real. I’ve felt accepted since day one. Being around younger people has been great; they keep me sharp. I hope I offer something to them as well.
What advice would you give someone thinking about going back to school?
First off, it can be done. Don’t let anyone, or yourself, tell you otherwise. I graduated high school in 1993. I’m 51 now. Life expectancy is getting longer, and people are living healthier lives. It’s never too late. The opportunity is there, but you have to reach for it. Nobody’s going to push that door open for you—you have to let yourself in.
Do you feel like coming back to school at your age has been an advantage or a challenge?
It’s absolutely been an advantage. I know what I want now. I know what I can do with this degree, and that gives me an edge. I’ve lived life—I’ve worked, I’ve struggled, and I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t. That experience is my foundation.
What kind of legacy do you want to leave behind?
I want people to know that it’s never too late to change, and to make your life better. No matter what obstacles you face—physical, emotional, spiritual—you can still make a choice. I want to be remembered as someone who never gave up, who pursued his dreams, and who inspired others to do the same.