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Tonight I continue my quest for knowledge, fame and fortune, or at the very least one of those. After an almost 3-year hiatus and 60 credits later, I’ve decided to go back to college to obtain my bachelors degree in Visual Communications and Graphic Design.

An odd sense of dejavu overcame me last night when I was loading up a shopping cart with peechee folders, pencils and notebooks. It made me think back to when I’d daydream in class, wondering if I’d ever reach my professional goal in life and if I’d be happy with my decisions.

My goal several years ago was to work in the field of graphic design and web development. After moving to New York in 2002, I got a job at KBToys, working there for 5 months and barely making ends meat. Eventually I answered an ad for “data entry” at a local tech company and mentioned my background (both self-taught and educated) in web development and design. After a year working under the title, sub-contractor, the company I work for officially hired me, with benefits, on their full time staff.

I’ve heard of people taking a break from education, promising they’ll return and never do. Many times it’s due to increased responsibilities or distractions and in this case you can’t blame a person. However, I see this as another stepping stone in my life and something I need to do in order to feel satisfied about my career. Not only that, but it’s guaranteed that this will open other avenues in my life; personally, professionally and spiritually.

Last night my 8-month old daughter and I sat down to watch Charlotte’s Web on DVD. She sat through the entire movie, resting her head on my leg and sipping on her bottle. During the film, Charlotte reminds Wilbur the pig to keep his chin up. It’s a message for everyone, to keep our chins up and make our way through life, worry less about frustrations and focus more on bettering ourselves. It’s something I’ve reiterated before, but it’s true and something to remember in order to keep yourself on track with your goals and desires. Remember that there will always be a reward for hard work and perseverance and it’s only up to you and the support of your friends and family to reach your goals.

My daughter, still an infant, may not be able to understand “keeping her chin up”, but someday she’ll figure it out and when she does, I’ll be there to support her 100 percent.