From one CXC to MSc with distinction. That’s the story of 31-year-old Castio Williams, who endured failure and tragedy, but triumphed!

NOT WITHOUT CHALLENGES

While a full-time undergraduate student, he juggled two student assistant jobs, working 45 to 50 hours per week.

Despite failing courses, he was able to finish his BSc in Human Resource Management, with honours, within the minimum three-year period.

“After completing my BSc in the fashion that I did, I was just enthused. Somewhere along the university journey, I developed this mindset of being a lifelong learner, thus the decision to venture into postgrad was a no-brainer. The only hindrance was that I could not afford a programme, as soon after graduation I commenced repayment of my SLB loan,” Williams explained.

He was offered employment at the university, which afforded him the privilege of completing a University Grants Committee-funded masters programme.

But the journey to completing the masters programme he commenced in January 2017 was not without challenges, as tragedy struck at the start of his second semester.

“I lost one of my beloved aunts to cancer in February. Two weeks later, I lost my grandfather, who was also dear to me. The grief was too much and it took a toll on me,” he recalled.

Williams requested a leave of absence and resumed studies the following September.

He got back into the groove of things until his daughter came along – an addition to balancing school and work.

Completing his thesis was the most taxing part of the journey. He thought of quitting so many times and had to request quite a few extensions before he finally submitted it.

Williams aced it.

“Achieving this MSc means everything to me. I welcome the growth and development, but more so the anticipated opportunities,” he said.

Williams, who is the youngest holder of a masters degree in his family, said that through it all, his family has been his fortress.

“We are from humble beginnings and we work very hard to survive amid the struggles. The fact that I’ve seen my family struggle so much over the years, I knew I had to keep going forward,” he stated.

“I dedicate my journey to all marginalized youths, especially males. Invest in your education. Develop a mindset of becoming a lifelong learner, of adding value to self and country.”

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