During graduation season, families rejoice in a milestone reached. But for sisters London and Raechel Beckett of Baltimore, the donning of cap and gown takes on a multitude of meanings.
“I’m graduating from Coppin State University,” said London Beckett.
“I’m graduating from Towson University,” said Raechel Beckett.
Raechel is graduating in public relations. Her younger sister London is graduating in criminal justice. But these siblings aren’t at the University of Maryland Global Campus graduation ceremony for themselves. They’re here to support their study buddy who also happens to be their mother, Sarah.
“Oh my goodness, I am so overwhelmed right now. I am so overwhelmed. This is like a dream come true," Sarah Beckett told 7News prior to walking the stage.
The dream began a few years back when Sarah Beckett attended Raechel’s high school graduation.
“I was sitting on the bleachers and I said ‘God, this is my time and I really want to graduate with my daughters'," Sarah said,
This mother’s decision put her on track for all three family members to earn their bachelor's at the same time. Sarah is in nursing.
“This is a whole dream come true. I just haven’t woken up yet,” added Sarah.
“It’s been [a] real good journey and it’s been nice to be able to do school work altogether," Raechel said.
“It’s been encouraging to have her around us and see her going just as hard as we’re going if not harder," London said.
When the moment finally arrived, Mom hit the stage first, followed by her daughters who graduate later this month.
“You walk in your fear. You continue to go. You don’t stop for anything until you get to where you want to be,” said Sarah.
This trio isn’t slowing down anytime soon since all three plan to get a master’s degree as well.
“I just never imagined that God would actually put us here together. It’s been a blessing. It’s been a true blessing," Sarah said.