Unwavering discipline and strong support system enable Oregon State online learner to succeed — and then some
When I first decided to return to school, I knew it wouldn’t be easy. Being a 33-year-old college student with two kids, a full-time job, and countless responsibilities meant that every hour of my day had to be planned with precision.
I wasn’t just going back to school for myself — I was doing it for my family, to show my kids that hard work and perseverance can push you through even the most demanding challenges.
My alarm goes off at 5:20 a.m. There’s no snoozing. I have to be at work by 6 a.m. sharp. As an environmental compliance inspector for the City of Lodi in California, my job takes me between water and wastewater treatment plants, ensuring that regulations are met to protect our community’s health and environment.
By the time I clock out at 3:30 p.m., I’ve already had a full day, but my responsibilities don’t stop there as I need to go to my second job – my family.
From 5 to 5:30 p.m., I cook dinner and eat with my family. This is one of the most important parts of my day, as this is a moment to connect with my wife and kids before I dive back into my studies. As soon as we’re done, I carve out time for homework and studying, balancing it with family time until the kids go to bed at 8 p.m. Once they’re asleep, I push myself for a few more hours, trying to absorb as much as I can before finally calling it a night at 11 p.m.
For the past three years learning online with Oregon State University, I’ve maintained a 3.75 GPA while earning multiple scholarships and three consecutive honor roll recognitions. Every late night, every sacrificed weekend and every early morning has been worth it because I refuse to let obstacles stand in my way.
But none of this would have been possible without my wife. We’ve been married for almost 10 years, and through every long night, every stressful exam, and every deadline, she has been my rock. She has held down the fort, supported me when I felt overwhelmed, and reminded me why I started this journey in the first place.
Her unwavering belief in me has been my greatest motivation.
I couldn’t be more grateful for the amount of support my family has given me. It’s been an intense three years, but I can finally see the finish line. While I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished, I’m also looking forward to something I haven’t had in a long time: time.
Time to enjoy life with my wife and kids without the constant weight of school hanging over me.
Discover how Esteban and other members of the Ecampus Student Advisory Board impact the online student experience at Oregon State University, and read about eligibility and participation requirements.
