For Melanie, a devoted mom from Arkansas, education has always been more than a goal—it’s been a lifelong dream.
She began her college journey 28 years ago, but life’s demands—raising a family, managing a household, and facing unexpected challenges—made finishing her degree difficult. Still, she never gave up. With three children currently attending Brigham Young University, Melanie felt inspired to finally achieve the milestone she had put on hold for nearly three decades.
Finding a Flexible Path Forward
Living hundreds of miles from campus, Melanie knew she needed a program that could adapt to her schedule and support her through life’s ups and downs. That’s when she discovered BYU Independent Study.
She enrolled in Adult Development and Aging in the Family, a course that aligned perfectly with her academic interests and family-centered perspective. The self-paced format and online accessibility gave her the freedom to continue her studies while still managing her responsibilities at home.
“The Independent Study format was exactly what I needed,” Melanie shared. “It offered structure but also the flexibility to work at my own pace.”
Persevering Through Unexpected Trials
Shortly after returning to her studies, Melanie received a life-changing diagnosis: breast cancer. The news could have halted her educational progress completely—but it didn’t.
Thanks to BYU Independent Study’s flexible and compassionate design, Melanie was able to keep learning while undergoing treatment and focusing on recovery. The ability to complete assignments from home, on her own schedule, meant she didn’t have to choose between her health and her goals.
“Because of the flexibility, I was able to keep going,” she said. “It gave me something positive to work toward while I was healing.”
Encouragement That Made a Difference
One of the highlights of Melanie’s experience was the support she received from her professor. His responsiveness, kindness, and enthusiasm for the subject inspired her to stay engaged and keep pushing forward.
“He was an amazing teacher—encouraging, passionate, and always quick to respond,” she said. “The projects and assignments really made the material come alive.”
For Melanie, that sense of connection and encouragement turned an online class into a meaningful learning experience that reignited her love of education.
Reaching the Finish Line
After years of perseverance, Melanie is graduating this year—a moment she’s dreamed about for nearly three decades. She’s proud not only of her accomplishment but also of the example she’s set for her children.
“I want them to see that it’s never too late to finish what you started,” she said.
Her journey stands as a reminder that determination, faith, and the right support system can make even the longest-held dreams come true.
Empowering Learners of Every Age
Melanie’s story reflects what BYU Independent Study strives to offer every student—a chance to learn at their own pace, on their own time, and in their own way. Whether you’re just starting your college journey or returning years later, it’s never too late to pursue your goals and make education a lifelong adventure.