Many things in life go away—whether we want them to or not. Relationships change, pets pass away, material things lose their luster. Jobs get lost, homes get sold, and children move away. But there is one thing nobody can take away. This one thing you will never lose once you’ve earned it. Your education. My grandma, my hero who never ever complained and never had the luxury to get an education always said: “Education is the only thing that can’t be taken from you.”
This priceless knowledge after years of studying and effort results in a piece of paper we put in a shiny black frame and adorn on an office wall. But, behind that glass are years of a journey that led us to experiences and memories. Experiences that have shaped us and can never be removed. Education becomes a part of us.
Whether it’s a science class that made you decide to become a nurse—and help bring lives into the world or saving older lives, or a math class that created a dream job to help high schoolers pass trigonometry. Or, in my case—a writing class and internship that sparked a passion to make a difference through words. My education journey began at a smaller school, but when my dreams were bigger, took a transfer to the University of Missouri. I thought broadcast was my calling, but soon discovered I’d rather write and share stories. My first job out of school was writing for magazines, but we all know the world went digital too soon for that career to really take off. Plus, I knew whatever I did next, I wanted to make a bigger impact.
Marketing bucket trucks might not sound so glamorous, but realizing those bucket trucks saved lives and turned on the power, I made that job meaningful. Now, full circle… I feel like the difference I was supposed to make was the true thing I’ve always loved: Education. Whether it be high school, college or post-collegiate courses, learning is everything.
I feel so fortunate to now work for, in my opinion, the best education company. I get to talk about digital tools to help student success, the importance of a higher education degree, the amazing experiences that come with putting everything you have into those courses. I will continue to spread the message of the importance of education—no matter what happens in our world. It is truly the one thing nobody can take from you.
