Aspen’s 2024 Commencement Ceremony has come to a close, marking the beginning of exciting new journeys for our graduates. It was an honor to celebrate with the graduates and see them walk across the stage! One of those graduates was Zaria Bhola, who will complete her Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Studies program later this month. In today’s post, we’re excited to share her story and words of commiseration and encouragement to her fellow graduates.
Finally! I know so many can relate to the immense joy and relief that I feel. The long nights, shortened weekends, eye bags, and grey hairs; I guess it was worth it after all. I remember my coworkers asking what my plans were for the weekend, to which I would reply “Another awesome date with Aspen.” Those who knew I was in school understood what I was saying, but others probably still think “Aspen” must be the most romantic guy.
Despite the long journey, I am grateful that Aspen University exists. Before I started studying at Aspen, I worked at a daycare that paid $15 an hour. After six months at the daycare, I realized that working with children was my life’s passion, but there was no way I could live on that income. I knew I had to take the next step by finding a bachelor’s program in early childhood studies. My search for a university was like looking for a movie on Netflix. The endless scrolling and checking the reviews: Nope. No good. No. Not this one. One day, I stumbled upon Aspen University, whose monthly payment plan was interest-free and provided the opportunity to avoid financial debt. It allowed me to continue my childcare job in New York and take online classes to fit my schedule. Aspen even accepted most of the college credits I earned while attending school in Grenada. It was perfect.
At first, I was nervous about attending online school, but I was pleasantly surprised at how engaging the professors were. They all seemed to genuinely share my passion for working with children. It was a breath of fresh air. Thank you, professors, especially Gina Oellig. I was even more excited after joining the National Society of Leadership and Success, where I attended virtual webinars and heard motivational speeches from inspiring speakers.
My educational journey involved keeping up with the due dates, managing time, and losing sleep on some nights. All the graduates can back me up when I say that APA formatting became our second (or third, or fourth) language. To all those graduating with me, I say, Congratulations! Felicitations! ¡Felicidades! To all those who earned their degrees with a family and mouths to feed, I applaud you. To all those who pushed on despite self-doubt and discouragement, I applaud you.
Dear graduates, my words of wisdom would be to stop comparing your chapter two with someone else’s chapter eight. Everyone’s journey is different, and everyone’s story is different. In the words of Carter Crocker, “You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” So, believe it! Graduates, as we turn a page in our lives, let us always remember to count our blessings. Let us think of the people around the world who never had an opportunity to receive an education, due to their circumstances. I am grateful to God, my family, and my professors at Aspen University. Hey Grandma, I know you’re away in heaven, but I want you to know I couldn’t have done this without you. I did it! Graduates, we did it! Go out there and make a difference!
The enthusiasm and determination of graduates like Zaria show the powerful impact education can have on shaping our futures. Her journey has been filled with challenges, personal growth, and a deep commitment to her passion, which we find simultaneously unique, relatable, and inspiring. We are proud to celebrate this milestone with her and look forward to seeing the positive difference she will continue to make in the lives of children and the field of education. Congratulations, Zaria!
You can watch the 2024 Commencement ceremony here. Your journey can lead to this stage, too: learn more about Aspen’s programs here, and apply today if you’re interested in enhancing your career through earning a new degree!