Rose's Story
“The race is not given to the swift nor the strong but to those who endureth to the end.” - Even if you’re not the smartest, strongest, or most knowledgeable, God can give you good success when you depend on His grace.
This is a popular saying in the African-American churches. It's used for encouragement. It appears in many of our worship songs. Starting September 25, 2023, this saying took on a deeper, personal meaning.
My college career started at Roosevelt University. Life there was so overwhelming. The sheer number of students in the classes was mind-boggling. My grades suffered. I was LOST! Abandoning my dream of graduating college was out of the question. The small university down the street came to mind. From the minute I entered the building, I felt at home. My graduation journey on “East-West University road” started in January, 1988. My grades improved. My confidence was restored. I connected with more students. College life was great!
My studies continued until 1990. Then LIFE got in the way. I decided to put my studies on hold while seeking full-time employment. The stipulation was any job offer I accept must include tuition reimbursement. I landed such a job with many opportunities to advance. My focus shifted from studies to career. I met and married my husband. I became the mother of 2 beautiful children. My focus shifted from career to motherhood. After 10 years, I resigned. Raising my children was my top priority. To me, there was no greater investment than in the next generation.
In 2007, I decided it was time to pick up my studies. I returned to East-West as a full-time student. Working part-time, caring for 2 elderly relatives, raising 2 children, completing my homework….I was OVERWHELMED!. In spite of the chaos, I performed better than any other time in college (all A’s). Sadly, I concluded adding college to the madness at that moment was not the right decision.
Fast forward to the year 2023. My life has changed dramatically. Some were good, one of my children had already graduated with a Bachelor's degree. Some were not so good. The dream of receiving my Bachelor’s degree resurfaced. My initial response to pursuing my education was to list all the reasons why I couldn’t succeed. I’m visually and hearing impaired. It’s been years since I’ve attended college. Those moments of doubt were short-lived. I have God’s grace and it is sufficient!
In September 2023, I rejoined the East-West University family. It was one of the best decisions of my life! Yes, it has been a struggle. I am not the smartest nor am I the most knowledgeable. However, God’s grace has brought me proficiency in all areas I lacked. My 30+ year journey will finally end soon. Thanks to East-West University, I and the class of 2024 are well prepared to face the world. The race is not given to the swift nor the strong but to those who endureth to the end.