At its core, this book is a testament to perseverance, faith, and resilience. It chronicles the challenges of pursuing higher education as a thirty-year-old nontraditional student, wife, and mother, facing obstacles that could have easily derailed the journey. Through exhaustion, self-doubt, and uncertainty, I refused to give up, drawing strength from my faith and the unwavering support of my family.

After multiple failed attempts, I made one final push to return to college, seeking readmission to Angelo State University following a previous suspension. The process required reference letters and a personal appeal, but in the fall of 2011, I was accepted under the fresh start program, allowing me to begin again. Though past failures weighed heavily on me, I was determined to prove that I was capable.

A pivotal meeting with an academic counselor reshaped my mindset. When she pointed out that my projected grades could earn me a spot on the dean's list, it sparked a newfound confidence. With a clear goal, I pushed myself harder than ever before, determined to succeed. That semester, I achieved my goal, proving that I was more than my past setbacks.

While balancing teaching and motherhood, I pursued a master's degree in curriculum and instruction, maintaining a rigorous schedule and reaffirming my commitment to academic excellence. Determined to go further, I applied to Texas Tech University's doctoral program.

The journey to earning my PhD was the most challenging, testing both my resilience and faith in ways I never imagined. Yet, by the grace of God, I persevered, overcoming every obstacle that stood in my way.