Mom and daughter, Latonya (43) and Laila (21) did something amazing.
They both graduated from college at the same time! This was a super special moment for them because it brought them even closer together.
Latonya is a single mom with six kids, so going to college while working full-time was a big challenge. But Laila, who was already a college student herself, actually suggested they go to school together! They both started at Rutgers University in September 2022.
Latonya says going to college with her daughter made their bond stronger. They connected in a way she never thought possible with her other kids. Even though they mostly had different classes, they still helped each other out whenever they needed it, like with schoolwork or everyday things.
Laila wanted to learn how to help people in need, like the homeless and elderly, while Latonya, who already worked as a drug and alcohol counselor, decided to focus more on her studies at Rutgers.
Going to college wasn’t always easy for Laila, but seeing her mom work so hard kept her motivated. Laila knew that if her mom could do it, so could she!
A professor at Rutgers even said that Laila and Latonya inspired each other. Laila motivated her mom to finish school, while Latonya showed Laila how to be independent. What an amazing team these two are!