For adult learners, returning to college after years away can feel overwhelming. But with determination and the right support system, the path toward a degree becomes much more manageable.
After nearly 20 years working in healthcare, Laketa Johnson knew she wanted more for her future. As a wife, mother, and healthcare professional, she had spent years prioritizing her family and career. But one goal had always remained: earning her bachelor’s degree.
When the time finally came to focus on herself, Laketa decided to pursue a degree in healthcare administration, building on her extensive experience in medical management.
There was just one challenge: It had been nearly 30 years since she’d been in a classroom.
Finding the Courage to Begin Again
Like many adult learners returning to college, Laketa faced uncertainty. Balancing a full-time job, family responsibilities, and coursework was intimidating enough. Learning unfamiliar technology and adjusting to academic expectations added another layer of anxiety.
She remembers struggling to navigate her online learning platform and feeling overwhelmed by assignments, presentations, and academic writing requirements. At times, giving up felt easier than continuing.
But Laketa wasn’t navigating those challenges alone.
Through myFootpath’s personalized student support, she connected with Darryl, a dedicated Graduation Specialist who quickly became an essential part of her journey.
“Darryl made me feel very comfortable about my decision,” Laketa shared. “He stayed motivating, stayed encouraging.”
From helping her understand resources and navigate challenges to checking in regularly, Darryl provided the reassurance and accountability Laketa needed to keep moving forward.
For Laketa, those conversations meant more than simply receiving academic guidance. They reminded her that someone genuinely cared about her success.
The Power of Having Someone in Your Corner
One of the most meaningful parts of Laketa’s story is the relationship she developed with her Graduation Specialist.
She recalls calling Darryl in tears, overwhelmed by unfamiliar technology and the demands of returning to school after decades away. Rather than letting those moments discourage her, Darryl helped her regain confidence and continue.
“It was almost like I had a cheerleader on the phone telling me, ‘Yeah, you can do it,'” she explained.
Now, more than a year into her academic journey, Laketa has developed a routine that keeps her focused. After finishing her workday, she heads to a dedicated study space in her bedroom, often spending her evenings completing assignments. Her family understands the importance of that time and supports her commitment.
She’s also mastered skills that once felt intimidating, from creating PowerPoint presentations to writing academic papers.
Her progress reflects her own hard work and determination, strengthened by the consistent encouragement of someone who believes in her.
What Laketa’s Story Means for Adult Learner Success
Laketa hopes to graduate and eventually advance into a healthcare leadership position, putting her professional experience and new education to work in a managerial, supervisory, or director-level role.
Her story also highlights an important lesson for higher education institutions seeking to reengage adult learners: Getting students enrolled is only the beginning. Helping them feel supported throughout their academic journey is just as important.
At myFootpath, Graduation Specialists provide individualized guidance, encouragement, and ongoing communication to help adult learners navigate obstacles that might otherwise interrupt their progress.
For students like Laketa, that human connection can make the difference between feeling overwhelmed and finding the confidence to keep going.
When asked what advice she would give other adults considering a return to college, Laketa offered a simple but powerful message:
“If you have a dream, make it a reality.”
Laketa’s journey is still unfolding, but her determination and progress are already worth celebrating. Her story is a reminder that adult learners bring tremendous experience, ambition, and potential to higher education. Sometimes, what they need most is someone in their corner.
At myFootpath, we help institutions turn that potential into progress through personalized adult learner outreach, reengagement, and ongoing student support. Learn more about partnering with myFootpath and request a free consultation here: Request Consultation.