Image: University of the District of Columbia Digital Media Student, Remi Bamidele, shows his school pride.
Remi’s story isn’t just about returning to school decades after dropping out. It’s about keeping promises he made to loved ones, pursuing progress, and proving (to himself and others) that it’s never too late to take a leap of faith.
When asked what motivated him to return to school after 24 years, his answer was both heartfelt and inspiring.
“I dropped out of school 24 years ago when my daughter was conceived,” he shared. “I promised her I’d go back, and now she’s 24. It felt like the right time. If not now, then when?”
For Remi, returning to school wasn’t just about fulfilling promises. It was about stepping up in a fast-changing world. “I wanted to best myself,” he said. “To stay competitive in this new age of education and technology.”
Why UDC?
When asked why he chose the University of the District of Columbia (UDC), Remi’s love for the city was clear. He’s lived in Washington, D.C., for over 20 years and considers it home.
“This is home for me. I love the culture, the people, everything about it,” he said. “I could’ve gone farther. NYU crossed my mind, but UDC made sense. It’s affordable and practical, and I wanted to stay close to what I know.”
His decision to stay local speaks to the importance of choosing a school that fits not just your academic goals but your life and financial circumstances, too.
Finding Balance
Balancing school with adult responsibilities is a challenge Remi, and many other adult learners, knows all too well. He simplified it in a way that was both honest and relatable.
“You get to a certain age, and responsibilities pile upfamily, mortgages, car notes,” he said. “But thankfully, I have a skill that’s in demand. My work in production gives me the flexibility to study and still make a living.”
It’s not just about juggling responsibilities; it’s about making your skills work for you.
Advice for Adult Learners
When asked what advice he’d give to someone on the fence about going back to school, his response was succinct but powerful: “Come to school,” he said simply.
He explained that the first step is deciding what you want to pursue.
“Make up your mind about what career or degree you want. It has to be something you’re passionate about,” he said. “If it’s just for the money, that’s fine, but when it’s passion, it’s not work. You’ll find yourself showing up early and staying engaged.”
Remi emphasized the importance of starting small.
“Look at community colleges or smaller universities first,” he suggested. “You don’t want to overwhelm yourself, and those environments tend to be more personal. People see you as a student, not just a number.”
Finally, he stressed consistency.
“Don’t miss class. Ask questions if you don’t understand something. Progress doesn’t happen by dreaming about it—you’ve got to take action.”
A Reminder to Keep Moving Forward
Remi’s story displays that progress is always possible, no matter how long it’s been since you’ve been in school. His commitment to his education and his family is inspiring, and his perspective on balancing passion and practicality is something we can all learn from.
“You have to make a step into progress,” Remi stated. “You can’t just dream of progress and expect it to happen.”
