My mom and I graduated from college in the same year. I was 23, and she was in her late 40s.

The author holds hands with his mother, Tiffany Calloway, during their graduation celebration. Courtesy of Omarion Calloway

I grew up believing that I had to work hard, go to college , get a piece of paper, and unlock a decent life. My mom believed in it even more than I did.

In May 2026, we crossed the finish line together. I was 23, graduating from New York University with a degree in Film and Television, ready to launch a career in journalism and filmmaking. My mom was in her late 40s when she earned her bachelor's degree in psychology after decades of putting her life on hold.

My mom raised me while taking care of family members

For as long as I can remember, my mom has been running on empty. Back in Alabama, she worked hospital shifts by day and cleaned corporate offices at night, riding public buses through the heat.…