AMERICA | A 44-year-old woman named Latoya Young has finally graduated from the university years after she dropped out of high school due to her inability to pay her outstanding fee of $693.
For Latoya, education was a dream that seemed out of reach for more than two decades. At just 16, she dropped out of high school after she became pregnant with her first child.
Though she later earned her GED in 2007, Latoya still carried an unfulfilled desire to graduate from university. After earning her GED, she proceeded to Georgia State University to pursue her associate’s degree.
However, the dream was put on hold because of a $693 balance on her account. Despite working as a hairstylist and an Uber driver, every attempt to save money was cut short by family emergencies, which included either helping her sons or supporting her mother.
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Fortunately, in 2018, everything changed during what seemed like an ordinary Uber ride. Latoya picked up a passenger named Kevin Esch, with whom she struck up a heartfelt conversation.
As she shared her struggles and her longing to finish school, Esch was moved. He tipped her $120 for the ride, but he did not stop there. Few days later, he walked into Georgia State University and quietly paid off her $693 balance.
Latoya was stunned when she received his text and a photo of the receipt: “Okay, you’re all set. Register for your class.” That single act of kindness reopened the door to her education.
She re-enrolled in August 2018 and, after years of balancing motherhood, hairstyling, driving Uber, and studies, Latoya proudly graduated in 2025 with an associate’s degree in Criminal Justice.
Latoya’s graduation was historic, not only because she became the first in her family to earn a college degree, but also because it symbolized perseverance, community, and the scholarly pursuit of a dream delayed but not denied.
Esch, the good Samaritan who paid her fees, was present to watch her walk the stage. “To see the smile on her face and to know she did it—it was amazing,” he said.
Georgia State University also honored Esch with a letter and framed picture, praising his role in changing Latoya’s life.
For Latoya, this milestone is only the beginning. She plans to continue her studies at Georgia State, pursue a bachelor’s degree, and ultimately attend law school to become a defense attorney.
She wants her story to inspire her three sons and countless others who may feel that financial setbacks or personal struggles mean the end of their education.
“My mother quit school in seventh grade to care for her siblings. I wanted to break that cycle. This degree is proof that with help, determination, and faith, it’s never too late to accomplish your goals,” Latoya shared.
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