RWU Extension School Graduate Proves There Is No Age Limit on Success

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – At Roger Williams University’s Extension School in Providence, Lina Mejia’s journey reflects determination, resilience, and quiet strength shaped by experience. Originally from Colombia, she carries her identity with pride. “I am Colombian,” she said “I feel very proud to be Colombian and to be part of the minority here.” That pride has followed her through every step of her path as a mother, an employee, and now, a soon to be graduate student.

Before arriving in the United States, she built a foundation in accounting during her high school years in Colombia. That background became the starting point for her career at the Extension School. She began modestly, translating documents for Spanish-language programs, but gradually took on more responsibility. Over time, her role evolved into her current position as a financial administrator, where she manages billing for credit and non-credit programs, and works closely with military students and municipal partners in Providence and Bristol. Today, she plays a key role in keeping essential systems running smoothly behind the scenes.

Her growth as an employee, however, is only one part of her story. While working full-time, she made the decision to pursue her own education. The Extension School became the ideal pathway, not only because of its flexibility, but because it allowed her to move forward at her own pace. She started slowly, taking one class at a time, balancing her coursework with the demands of work and family life.

Now, she is completing a postgraduate degree in Public Administration, a milestone that represents years of persistence. Her decision to study wasn’t just about career advancement, it was deeply personal. Her greatest motivation has been her daughter. She set a goal to finish her degree before her daughter graduated from high school, hoping to lead by example. That goal is now a reality, as both reach important milestones at the same time.

Balancing these roles has not been easy. She explained that the biggest challenge has been managing time. Juggling responsibilities as a full-time employee, student, mother, and wife required discipline and sacrifice, but she remained committed throughout.

Despite being a non-native English speaker, she does not view language as a barrier. Instead, she sees her journey as proof of what’s possible. As a first-generation student in the United States, her accomplishments carry even greater weight. “Regardless of age, you can still achieve many accomplishments, I am the first generation,” she said. Mejia believes her story challenges the idea that education belongs only to the young or the traditional student.

Her experience at the Extension School has been overwhelmingly positive, especially the flexibility of online learning. She describes it as one of the best decisions she could have made, it was an opportunity that allowed her to continue growing without putting her life on hold.

At the heart of her story is a simple but powerful message which is that perseverance matters more than circumstance. She acknowledges that being part of a minority can come with doubt from others, but she has used that doubt as fuel. “Despite being a minority, there is no age limit to achieving your goals, you can show just how much you’re capable of accomplishing.”

Encuentra la traducción al español aquí.