The Journey to Graduation: Balancing Studies, Work, and Family

My wife, Anastância, and I first learned about BYU-Pathway Worldwide from the mission president in Angola, who described it as a great opportunity for affordable, high-quality education. Although I had previously studied political science at university, I was seeking an educational path that better aligned with my professional goals and personal aspirations.

With three children — a boy and two girls — our family needed a flexible and supportive educational option. BYU-Pathway offered exactly what I needed to pursue my goals without significantly disrupting my family’s routine or well-being. Anastância and I enrolled in BYU-Pathway and became part of the first group of nine students to complete PathwayConnect in Angola in 2020. The online format allowed us to participate in gatherings from home. As we progressed, we also decided to become service missionaries, sharing more about BYU-Pathway in our country and helping new students with their applications.

Finding a balance

After completing PathwayConnect, I decided to continue my bachelor’s degree online in applied business management from BYU-Idaho. It was a decision full of expectations and uncertainties. The flexibility offered by the online education seemed to provide a balance between my studies, work, and family responsibilities.

However, I quickly realized this flexibility also required a high level of discipline, commitment, and organization that wasn’t easy to maintain. There were times it seemed impossible to find the time and energy to do my school assignments when family and professional responsibilities demanded my immediate attention. Sleepless nights became a common occurrence in my life. Activities with family and friends were sometimes postponed. Sometimes, I felt so overwhelmed and unmotivated that I questioned whether I would be able to meet all that was expected of me.

I did my best to reconcile assignment deadlines with personal and professional commitments. Along the way, I managed to find a healthy balance between my studies and other areas of my life by setting clear priorities, creating an organized schedule, and, most importantly, asking my family for support.

Strength in support

During the stressful times, the love and support of my family gave me the strength to keep moving forward. Anastância, in particular, was an endless source of support, patience, and motivation. She was always reminding me of the greater purpose behind my efforts.

I also found inspiration and strength in the scriptures. Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” That powerful promise became a constant reminder that I was not alone in my educational journey and gave me the strength to keep moving forward. Even when challenges seemed insurmountable, I knew I was not limited by my own strength but empowered by divine grace.

Finish your journey

I am proud to have been the first BYU-Pathway student in Angola to graduate with an online bachelor’s degree from BYU-Idaho in July 2024. As I reflect on my journey, I can see the challenges I faced as opportunities for growth. Each obstacle helped me build resilience and strength.

BYU-Pathway Worldwide was crucial in providing me with this opportunity. It helped me lay a solid foundation and learn essential skills for my academic, professional, and spiritual success.

To all those who are currently on a similar journey or those who wish to begin this journey, no matter how difficult and long the road ahead may seem, always remember the greater purpose behind your efforts. Stay firm in your determination, keep your eyes fixed on the final goal, and never doubt your potential to achieve your goals.