By Sarah Campo, Director of Alumni Engagement at ECPI University

Four wooden frames holding Solomon Makwara’s academic diplomas were arranged on the table as he prepared to hang them up. Seeing the degrees together, his daughter asked him to share the story behind each one.

The first diploma that Solomon pointed to was an Associate of Applied Science in Engineering Technology from ECPI University. He earned it in 2010, when the institution was known as ECPI College of Technology. It was his first degree, completed at the age of 29.

Solomon’s journey didn’t start there, though. Before enrolling at ECPI University, his life followed a very different path. Even so, he always believed in the value of education and knew that one day he would pursue it when the opportunity arose.

A Long Road to Opportunity

Solomon grew up in Zimbabwe, where he completed Form 4, the equivalent of 11th grade, along with two additional years of advanced-level studies. At that time, he didn’t have the means of moving on to a university. Instead, he got married at 22 and began working as an accounting clerk. As his career progressed, he continued to view education as a long-term goal and an important part of his future.

Solomon in Zimbabwe prior to moving to the United States

When he was 26, Solomon moved to the United States on his own, while his wife remained in Zimbabwe until she could join him. His initial transition came with significant culture shock. “When I bought my first computer, it stayed in the box for three months because I didn’t know how to connect it,” he shared. “I also didn’t know how to do everyday things like pumping my own gas.” Over time, he grew more comfortable and began to adapt to his new life.

As Solomon thought about his career path, he obtained a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and considered becoming a truck driver. However, his desire to go back to school turned him away from that decision, and he instead found work as an operator at Micron Technology, an engineering company. There, he met Brian Warnecke, a colleague who worked evenings as an instructor at ECPI University. 

Solomon shared his dream of higher education with Brian, who encouraged him to pursue it. At age 28, he finally made the decision to follow his dream. He initially registered at ECPI University just to obtain an A+ certification, but he eventually made the commitment to enroll in the Associate in Engineering Technology program. “I saw the opportunity to advance in my life,” he recalled.

A Shared Commitment

When Solomon began his studies at ECPI University, his wife had joined him in the United States, and they were raising a family together. They committed to a structured life that allowed them to support both the household and Solomon’s academic goals. He worked during the day while she worked during the evening, and their life settled into a rhythm.

After work, Solomon took his children to the babysitter before heading to the Northern Virginia campus for his evening class. Afterwards, he would take his kids home, put them to bed, and spend the remaining hours doing homework.

Despite the busy schedule, the routine worked for Solomon. The pace kept him focused and on track. He was especially motivated by the material he covered in class, which became immediately useful. “It was an eye-opener for me to learn about things I didn’t understand at work,” he said. “Once they were explained, it all started to make sense.”

Solomon attributed his successful learning to his instructors, who approached their teaching in a way he connected with. One instructor, who worked at the post office, often used simple examples from his professional life to explain complex concepts. There was always someone around to address his concerns, and the overall environment felt comfortable and supportive.

With support at home and in the classroom, it wasn’t long before Solomon reached the goal he had carried for years. He walked across the graduation stage to receive his first college diploma, a proud moment that had been long in the making. However, it didn’t mark the end of his journey.

Solomon with his son as they celebrate his first graduation 

A Lifelong Pursuit

After earning his associate degree, Solomon knew that his future was only just beginning. “ECPI created the groundwork for me to desire more education in my life,” he said. From there, he pursued additional degrees, resulting in a bachelor's in information technology followed by a Master of Business Administration. 

After completing his graduate studies, Solomon chose to shift his focus toward spending more time with his children. The love for education never left him, but he wanted to see his children grow up. Years later, he was ready to return to the classroom once again. In August 2025, he earned a Master of Science in information technology management, marking his fourth academic milestone.

Solomon and his family at his son’s high school graduation

Today, Solomon works in a managerial role at an engineering company that manufactures computer components. Each day, he applies the knowledge he gained through years of education, validating the decision he made toward his future.

For Solomon, his educational journey is still not over. He’s currently exploring his options as he plans to pursue his Doctor of Business Administration. With his professional life settled, Solomon’s next milestone is one of personal achievement. “I want it for self-actualization and for a sense of accomplishment,” he said.

A Story that Reached Millions

When Solomon was framing his four hard-earned diplomas, he didn’t expect his daughter to be recording the moment. As he talked about them, what stood out most wasn’t the degrees themselves but what it took to earn them. After his daughter posted the video online, it quickly reached a wide audience, with viewers across the world celebrating his accomplishments.

The reason Solomon’s video resonated with so many people is because of the determination that defined his life. Despite the setbacks he faced, Solomon kept his dream alive and continued to work towards it no matter how long it took. His story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to pursue education. As he works toward his next goal, he does so with the support and encouragement of millions who were inspired by his journey.

About the Author: Sarah Campo

Sarah Campo is the Director of Alumni Engagement at ECPI University. She is passionate about sharing graduate stories, celebrating their achievements, and building meaningful connections that continue beyond graduation.