For Sylvia Reese, the journey to a bachelor’s degree began more than fifty years ago. Fresh out of high school, she started college like many of her peers but quickly found herself struggling to stay focused. Life soon led her down a different path. She paused her education, got married, and started a family. Her dreams of earning a degree were put on hold as she embraced the role of wife and mother.
Years passed, and once her youngest child left home for school, Sylvia found herself at a turning point. She returned to the classroom and earned an associate degree in Early Childhood Education. For several years, she worked in preschools, pouring her heart into nurturing young learners. But when the COVID-19 pandemic shuttered schools across the country, Sylvia and her husband made a big move, relocating to North Dakota to be closer to their grandchildren.
It was there, at the age of 67, that Sylvia made a bold decision: she would return to college to pursue her bachelor's degree.
“I wasn’t sure I could do it,” she admitted. “There were so many moments where I felt out of place, especially being significantly older than my classmates. But they embraced me, offered help when I needed it, and never made me feel like I didn’t belong.”
Technology proved to be one of the biggest challenges. Navigating online systems, digital platforms, and virtual meetings wasn’t second nature to someone who had grown up in a pre-digital world. “The technology part has not been easy,” Sylvia said with a laugh, “but the younger students have helped me with those challenges.”
Beyond academics, Sylvia balanced life as a student and a full-time grandmother. Sometimes that meant juggling homework with grandkid playtime or even having her youngest grandson pop into advisor meetings. Fortunately, her professors at Dickinson State University (DSU) welcomed her unique circumstances with open arms.
Dr. Deborah Secord, who served as Sylvia’s advisor and mentor, played an especially impactful role. “She has been my cheerleader and has prodded me through this experience,” Sylvia shared. “She believed in me.”
Dr. Secord echoed that sentiment, saying, “I invested a lot of time into her because I truly believe everyone deserves the opportunity to accomplish their dreams. Sylvia’s passion to achieve this goal never wavered.”
One of the most rewarding aspects of Sylvia’s college journey was her student teaching experience in a multi-grade classroom. It solidified her confidence and gave her a clear sense of direction. After graduation, she hopes to find a part-time position as a teacher assistant, working with young students, a role she feels deeply called to pursue.
But Sylvia’s story doesn’t end with her own accomplishments. Her journey has also inspired the next generation, most notably her daughter.
“My daughter has been encouraged by her workplace to get her bachelor’s in nursing,” Sylvia said. “And I wanted her to know that she isn’t too old to do it. Because if I’m not too old at 70, she isn’t too old either.”
Sylvia Reese stands as a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to chase your dreams, invest in yourself, and show others what’s possible, at any age.