Dear Editor,

Earlier this week I posted the adage “Education is the key to success” on my WhatsApp status and questioned whether there was another key because this one seemed very rusty.

My good friend, Othniel Williams, who is pursuing doctoral studies in the United States, commented, “Opportunity!”. He subsequently sent a voice note recalling that it was a security guard who had pointed out the nuance to him a few years ago.

Curious about how this new perspective challenges the traditional view, I reflected deeply on the nuances and thought the faithful readers of my column may benefit.

Canadian journalist and author Malcolm Gladwell states that success is the product of opportunity. A person’s individual attributes, such as talent and positive character and work ethic, are crucial in determining his/her potential; however, according to Gladwell, external factors play a significant role in who has the opportunity to reach his/her potential and who faces setbacks. Put differently, it is highly impossible to attain success if a person does not have the chance to put his/her skills to work.

There is much merit in this position. The annual Inter-secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA)/GraceKennedy Boys’ and Girls’ Athletics Championships testify to this. Many student-athletes get the opportunity to demonstrate their talents, which results in numerous scholarships and professional development for them.

Education is good and is the only avenue some people can use to move from poverty to prosperity; however, not every bright man has the opportunity to capitalise on his intellect.

Although the Government has made it easier to access a loan through the Students’ Loan Bureau (SLB), several university students still struggle to cover their monthly housing, grocery, and miscellaneous costs. In fact, some drop out of school because of this. They end up working full-time with meagre salaries just to make ends meet.

I know of a couple young people in rural areas who opt not to go to university because they do not have the financial and moral support from their family members. It is quite disheartening to see people with so much potential not get the opportunity to enhance their skills and go on to lead a better life.

A better education is the opportunity for many; however, what happens next? What if you are well qualified but your résumé does not reach the interview panel? What if you are overlooked because no one knows you because you do not have an active digital presence? What if no one takes a chance on you? What if no one calls your name in a room when you are not there?

At the same time, however, folks should capitalise on their education. What niche area can you develop that will bring meaningful solutions to a community or industry? You have invested a lot to attain a good education, it is time for the return on investment to show.

Nonetheless, it is not always immediate. Sometimes it takes years to build your reputation and credibility. You have to endure the process. You will fail sometimes, but lift yourself up and carry on. You will also be underpaid — aren’t many of us? But keep improving your craft. Cultivate discipline, perseverance, and a growth mindset.

When we get to the desired point of elevation, let us not forget where we started and make it better for those behind us. Remember, we become to help others become.

Oneil Madden

maddenoniel@yahoo.com