I remember a young man, excited about his upcoming college graduation, thinking his diploma was his ticket to an easy life.

During our chat on a rural bus to the university, where he studied and I worked, I smiled at his optimism.

Both of us were on this bus because we couldn’t afford cars.

Back then, I hadn’t started my PhD yet, but had already earned two master's degrees in two different countries.

Despite my academic success,

underemployment was a reality for me,

while my brothers struggled with unemployment during a tough economy.

This experience taught me a crucial lesson:

A university education alone doesn’t guarantee success.

Real success comes from resilience, adaptability, and unwavering faith.