I have.
But don’t worry: I didn’t… and I’m not going to.
At 33, I’ve learned that my path looks completely different from that of my friends and family. Have I felt discouraged about not finishing my degree yet? Absolutely!
But here’s what I know for sure: my professional journey is unique. It’s mine, and no one else’s.
My personal and professional experiences have shaped the woman I am today, and instead of killing my hunger for growth, they’ve fueled it. Even without my diploma (yet), I’ve built years of work experience. I see myself as a professional, I learn constantly from people, trends, and projects. I’ve worked behind a computer in transactional roles, and I’ve also been deeply involved in strategic planning. All of that has shaped a version of myself I love and admire.
I’m not giving up on my degree, I’m still investing time to finish it, hopefully sooner rather than later. But I’ve learned something valuable: it’s not about rushing to get a diploma just to land a job anymore. For me, this is about enjoying the process. Earning my degree has become a personal milestone, something I want to accomplish so I can proudly say: I did it.
Rosibel’s story: determination that changes lives
This conversation with Rosibel is living proof that professional paths can look very different, and still be equally valuable. While our journeys aren’t the same, there’s one thing we share: determination.
In her case, discipline and perseverance completely transformed her future. It might sound like something out of a movie, but it’s true.
If you’re here, you probably came from YouTube to read more about Episode 2 of The Story Series. And if you haven’t watched it yet, grab your coffee or tea and go watch it now, this is a story you don’t want to miss!
Honoring the space and the story Rosibel shared about her life and professional journey, I’m using this blog to highlight how to enroll in Costa Rican universities and summarize some of the scholarship options available.
Your professional journey: it’s never too late to start, or keep going
This community exists for exactly this reason: to support each other, motivate each other, and push forward even those dreams that may seem impossible to others.
Whether you’re a high school student or an adult, remember: life is meant to be lived, enjoyed, and reinvented as many times as necessary. In reality, you never start from zero, every new chapter begins with the experience you’ve already gained, and that’s something amazing!
As Rosibel reminded us during the interview:
“The years will pass anyway, the real question is, how do you want to live them?”
Universities and scholarships in Costa Rica: opportunities to open doorS
Costa Rica offers both public and private programs to help you achieve your professional goals. Here are some examples:
- MEP (Ministry of Public Education) – Post high school Scholarships
Financial support for students in vulnerable situations, available for both public and private universities registered with SINIRUBE. Applications and renewals can be completed online via platforms like REDI. - UCR (University of Costa Rica) – Socioeconomic Scholarship
Enrollment typically opens in January for each academic cycle. Available to new students and those who need to reapply for financial aid. Requires a digital form and socioeconomic documentation. - ULACIT (Latin American University of Science and Technology) – Merit & Leadership Scholarships
Merit Scholarship: Covers 30% to 50% depending on GPA.
Leadership Scholarship (100%): For students with outstanding achievements in areas like entrepreneurship, human rights, art, sports, or climate change. - UNA (National University of Costa Rica) – UNA Scholarships
Offers socioeconomic and academic incentive scholarships for both first-year and current students. Selection is based on financial evaluation and, in some cases, academic excellence or institutional involvement. - ULatina (Latin University of Costa Rica) – ULatina Scholarships
Offers partial and full scholarships for students with high academic performance, leadership experience, or participation in sports, cultural, and community programs.
Key tip: plan ahead! Review requirements and application dates, gather your documentation, and stay proactive. The only person responsible for making this happen is you.
Whatever your path looks like, never feel discouraged. Education and personal growth have no expiration date.
Intellectual growth should commence at birth and cease only at death.
Albert Einstein
