Work to Learn, To Learn to Work II
- Apr 14
- 2 min read
By Kymani Phillips
Most sophomores on campus are still figuring out who they want to become. Davon Howard had already lived a whole life before arriving at Barry University.
At 43, Howard sits in classrooms alongside students nearly half his age—a retired U.S. Army sergeant who served from 2001 to 2014.
After more than a decade in the military, he retired with benefits that made higher education financially possible. Now, as a theology major, he is building another career.
“Going back to school was a dream of mine,” Howard said. “Experiencing a real college atmosphere and the journey that comes with it.”
Born and raised in Pensacola, Florida, Howard joined the army straight from high school. He learned structure, discipline and a fully formed professional identity.
Returning to school now means adapting to a different culture, one shaped largely by students in their early twenties.
“It’s challenging,” he said. “You have to adapt to a new culture and a generation who are 20 years younger than you. Retraining yourself on how to study, talking to others, having studying periods, and a set routine, it’s much different from a 9-to-5.”
That routine, however, appears to be working. Howard currently holds a 3.8 GPA and aims to maintain a GPA above 3.5 through graduation. For him, success is not measured by achievements and recognition, but rather consistency.
“Success is having a good work ethic and discipline that will continually make you a better you,” he said.
Howard initially majored in political science, but he later changed it to theology, not because it was more convenient, but because he was genuinely interested in it. After graduation, he plans to pursue his master’s or doctorate in theology. He also plans to work in veterans' affairs centers, assisting disabled veterans get the help they need after serving the country.
Although he no longer works while enrolled in college, Howard funds his education and living expenses through his post-9/11 benefits. His focus remains on academics and his long-term goals, yet he is aware that his path is not typical.
“This is one of the first times doing something to better my life, when I had a whole other career before,” Howard said. “It’s something that’s always in the back of my mind sometimes, that I’m not a regular student. I had a whole other career.”
That awareness sharpens his perspective. He approaches each class deliberately, conscious that education is not an automatic next step but a chosen one. His advice to his younger self reflects that mindset: “Start early in life. If you work now, you can play later. Connecting with others is vital, and to take each course seriously, as you can learn something valuable.”
Howard does not frame his return to school as extraordinary. He speaks about it with calm focus, as another goal to complete with discipline.
Thank you Davon Howard for your decade long service in the U.S. Army. This story is extremely inspiring and admirable. Hearing those work hard and want to go back to school puts into perspective that attending a university is a blessing. I enjoy the message of this story that one can redefine their life at any point in time. Lastly, Davon Howard success quote, “Success is having a good work ethic and discipline that will continually make you a better you.” Really struck me because as we get older success starts to mean something different for everyone. I do like how Davon defines it.
Davon Howard's story is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to grow, and proves that discipline built in one chapter of life can carry into the next. His plan to serve disabled veterans after graduation shows that his commitment to others didn't end when his service did, and I believe that's a lesson worth carrying into the future!
This article is an inspiring read with a wonderful story tied to it. Davon Howard's journey is touching to read and meaningful to take in as a student. While I may not be in the same situation as him, hearing about his dedication and love for learning motivates me. It is so beautiful that he was able to pursue his life-long dream and attend a university, even as an adult. This experience will help shape him as a person even more than his life already has. I really enjoyed reading this article and hope that more people get opportunities like him to fulfill their dreams.
This article was truly inspiring to read! Davon's journey from achieving academic fulfillment on a campus of people half his age to being able to adapt was a very meaningful story. Hearing his words for success and the work ethic he presents in a vastly different environment is something great to live by, especially as a student myself. Loved it!
This article is an example of great journalism combined with storytelling. On one hand, it was very informative regarding Davon Howard, his background and the trajectory that led him to Barry University at 43. However, it was also compelling, showcasing Howard in a light of fulfilling his dreams, proving his discipline and embracing a unique story that emotionally connects to the reader on a deeper level. Thank you for the great read.