Wadadli Mag

The classroom can be a rewarding but an intimidating place. It can be even more daunting returning to a traditional learning setting after a long hiatus. But Lamin Newton, a recent graduate at the University of the West Indies, Five Islands Campus, worked up the courage and made his way through. While he felt like running away from the challenge on many occasions, the now 47- year- old walked away with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Political Science as a more confident man. In this detailed interview, he shares what motivated him to enroll in university in his 40’s.

---

Question: What made it the right time to further your education?

Lamin Newton: I wanted to pursue this degree for quite sometime now. However, I procrastinated for far too long simply because I underestimated myself. I am also of the opinion that nothing happens before its time, so I do think that this is indeed the right time. I’m growing in my political career and going to university and learning the scientific aspects of the discipline will assist me in becoming a better politician. 

Question: Why did you decide to study Political Science?

Lamin Newton: I studied Political Science because I have a passion for representing people. We must face the fact that some people are just not capable of fighting for themselves and these individuals should never be without a voice. I made a conscious decision to be that voice for the voiceless in their difficult moments. 

Question: Was there a specific moment that pushed you to finally make the decision to enroll?

Lamin Newton: I was motivated to enroll in the UWI once the fourth landed campus became a reality in Antigua and Barbuda. I stood in support of the government at the time in welcoming the campus to Antigua. My decision to do so caused a rift between myself and the UPP (United Progressive Party), and I did the honourable thing by resigning. I knew I was going to enroll into the university, so I could not be a hypocrite by opposing the institution and then attending secretly.

For context, Lamin Newton is a former political candidate for the United Progressive Party. He is now an Antigua & Barbuda Labour Party senator.

Question: What are the factors that delayed you starting a university programme?

Lamin Newton: I didn’t start earlier because of fear. I never thought I had what it took to complete the programme. I doubted myself for years and I didn’t want to disappoint myself, nor my close friends and family.

Question: Did age factor into your thinking before you enrolled?

Lamin Newton:  I never saw my age as a factor. As a matter of fact, I saw quite a few individuals who were older than myself attending UWI and that provided a level of comfort for me.

Additionally, Lamin says he was unbothered by being in the same classes as younger students. It actually provided a great opportunity for him.

Lamin Newton: I was never concerned about my younger classmates. Interestingly, throughout my studies I noticed that my younger classmates would rely heavily on me for leadership and guidance, especially whenever we did group assignments. 

Question: As a man, did you feel any pressure to have it “all figured out” already?

Lamin Newton: As a man, I never felt any pressure to have it all figured out already. I surrounded myself with all the right people. People who inspired me, people who motivated me to go higher. I made sure I had individuals that I could turn to whenever I felt like giving up. 

Question: Did pride show up along the journey, and how did you manage it?

Lamin Newton: I never allowed pride to be an issue for me. All I was focused on was finishing. I think walking across the stage occupied my thoughts more than anything else throughout my studies…. I wanted nothing more than that.

Question: What was your support system like?

Lamin Newton: I had a really good support system. My friends were very supportive and encouraging. One of my closest friends was also doing the very same programme, so that made it a lot easier for the both of us.

Question: How did you secure financing?

Lamin Newton: My degree was paid for entirely by me. I took out a payment plan and paid in installments. I did not receive a scholarship to complete my  degree. 

Question: How does learning feel now versus your younger years?

Lamin Newton: I am much more appreciative of my life today than my younger self. I am not in any way chastising the younger version of myself. However, life has taught me some invaluable lessons and I’m eternally grateful for that.

Question: Were there any unexpected challenges to being older?

Lamin Newton: Being older allowed me to be more focused. I knew to myself that I didn’t have the luxury of time. I knew that I had to make use of this opportunity and could not fumble it. Being older does not really present any advantages, it is the level of maturity that caused me to understand that I had no other choice but to see this through to the very end. 

Question: How does it feel to be a degree holder?

Lamin Newton: Being the holder of a university degree has certainly changed my perception of myself. I am now a more objective thinker, and I am a much more disciplined person today than I was several years ago. I have learnt the value of utilizing my time wisely, because time waits for no one. 

Question: Did this journey heal any insecurities or regrets?

Lamin Newton: This journey helped me to heal some of my personal insecurities. I used to second guess myself a lot, questioning myself, if I’m saying the correct thing. However, I’ve since gotten over those insecurities, and I’m now a much more confident person.

Question: Did you ever feel like quitting?

Lamin Newton: There were several times that I felt like quitting. Whenever I had to complete assignments and the deadline was approaching fast, I sometimes felt like I couldn’t do it anymore. I wanted to give up, but I knew I had to be more resilient and press on. I often reminded myself that nothing good comes easy, so I remained focused and kept on working hard. 

Question: What’s one struggle people don’t talk about enough when it comes to adult education?

Lamin Newton: One struggle that I think gets ignored a lot in adult education is time management. As adults, we are challenged with balancing work, family, and learning. It is never easy to balance. If we are to be honest with ourselves, we know that there will always be a deficit in one area of our lives. No matter how well we try to balance all three, there will be some difficulties. 

Question: What’s the next step?

Lamin Newton: My next step is to improve this current version of myself. I have started a Master’s programme which I hope to complete within the next fifteen months. 

Question: What’s your advice to others, particularly men on going to university at a more mature age?

Lamin Newton: I encourage everyone who truly wants to further their education to do so now. Don’t hesitate to take that leap of faith in advancing your career. Procrastination is our worst enemy, so don’t allow it to conquer you. Nothing is beyond your reach, it just requires commitment and discipline.