21-year-old formerly homeless boy bags bachelors degree at US university, becomes the first graduate in his family

AMERICA | A 21-year-old formerly homeless young man named Dylan Chidick has achieved a life-changing milestone, graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) in the United States. His achievement makes him the first university graduate in his family.

Dylan’s story is one of perseverance, determination, and resilience. From experiencing homelessness as a teenager to earning a university degree, his journey reflects an unyielding commitment to changing his life and building a future in law.

Dylan's Story and How He Did It

Dylan’s academic journey took a positive turn in 2019, when at just 17 years old, he pushed through immense challenges to apply for college while facing homelessness.

Despite the odds, he earned admission offers from 17 universities across the United States, a remarkable achievement that reflected both his academic excellence and determination.

Originally from Trinidad, Dylan moved to the United States at the age of seven with a clear goal, to become the first person in his family to attend and graduate from college.

Speaking about his journey, he once said, “The dream I want to achieve requires a lot of determination,” a principle he lived by throughout high school and beyond.

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Out of the many universities that offered him admission, Dylan chose The College of New Jersey, where he studied Political Science. He maintained strong academic and leadership standards throughout his time at the institution and graduated in 2025.

While at TCNJ, Dylan was deeply involved in campus life and leadership. His impact on the student community earned him induction into The College of New Jersey’s Blue and Gold Hall of Fame.

The college’s Blue and Gold Hall of fame is an honor awarded annually to only 12 students who have made a positive and lasting contribution to the student experience.

Sharing his achievement, Dylan expressed deep gratitude to the institution and its support systems. He acknowledged the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) program, crediting its staff for their unwavering guidance and support throughout his four-year journey.

“I am forever grateful to this college and the opportunities I was given to grow as a leader—and more importantly, as a person. I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for the staff. This experience has shaped who I am today,” he shared. 

As he looks ahead, Dylan is excited about the future and is on a path toward law school, determined to continue breaking barriers and rewriting his family’s story. He has been accepted into Vermont Law and Graduate School where he will studying for a Doctor of Law(JD).

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