My mom and I graduated from college in the same year. I was 23, and she was in her late 40s.

The author holds hands with his mother, Tiffany Calloway, during their graduation celebration. Courtesy of Omarion Calloway The author and his mother graduated from college in May 2026. Despite earning their degrees, both struggled to find jobs in their fields. Their experiences challenged the promise that a college degree guarantees a better life. I grew up believing that I had to work hard, go to college , get a piece of paper, and unlock a decent life. My mom believed in it even more than I did. In May 2026, we crossed the finish line together. I was 23, graduating from New York University with a degree in Film and Television, ready to launch a career in journalism and filmmaking. My mom was in her late 40s when she earned her bachelor's degree in psychology after decades of putting her life on hold.