Dear Student and Future Student
Today, My Fifth Book Releases Into the World
A week ago, I had the opportunity to do a radio interview in NYC about the state of education, my story, and how community has the power to change someone’s life. Towards the end of the conversation, the interviewer asked me what I would say to a student who needs encouragement while facing impossible odds, poverty, or major challenges. That question caught me off guard because it made me think about what I would tell my younger self.
The interviewer then added to the question. She asked what I would say to nontraditional students who are either starting school later in life or pushing themselves to keep going despite setbacks.
I paused for a moment, and then I remembered a letter I had written to both traditional and nontraditional students. I asked if I could read it, and I did, because it captures my heart to inspire those who are doing their best to overcome.
If you are a teacher, or if you know a student who needs these words, please pass them along.
Dear Student or Future Student,
If you're reading this, I want you to know something: you're not too late, you're not too old, you're not too broken, and your dream is not too far gone. Maybe you're reading this in between shifts. Maybe you're sitting in class wondering if you belong.
Maybe you're carrying pain you've never had the chance to name, or trying to stay focused when life outside the classroom feels louder than anything a textbook could teach. Wherever you are in your journey—just starting, starting over, or struggling to keep going, I want you to hear this clearly: your story isn't over. And you matter.
Whether you're a traditional student trying to stay visible in a place that often overlooks you, an adult returning to school after life got in the way, or someone choosing a different path, like a certification, trade, or training that fits your life—this letter is for you.
I didn't take a straight path. I dropped out. I worked jobs that wore me down. I carried shame, trauma, and the fear that I'd never catch up. But I also discovered something: my story still had purpose, and so does yours. If you've been underestimated, overlooked, or counted out, let this be your reminder: you don't have to fit anyone else's timeline.
You don't have to walk a straight path. Whether you're raising kids, starting late, healing from what life handed you, or figuring it out day by day, you still have the right to dream. And not just small dreams—big, world-shaking, future-shaping dreams. I want to also say this to you: healing is possible. Finding your people, the ones who will believe in you, encourage you, and walk with you is possible. You don't have to do this alone.
I pray you find safe spaces to grow and process. I pray you find a circle that reminds you of your worth on the days you forget. And most of all, I pray you know that God sees you. Even in the struggle. Even in the waiting. Even in the doubt.
There were moments I wanted to give up, but God didn't give up on me.
And I believe God hasn't given up on you either. If no one's ever told you: I believe in you. I'm rooting for you. There is power in your presence. There is purpose in your path. There is still hope in your story.
Keep going! Healing is happening, even when it's hard to see. You've already come so far. And there's more ahead.
"I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future." —Jeremiah 29:11
With respect and solidarity,
Terence
Whew! These words get me every time that I read them because I truly want people to know as long as breath is still in their bodies, it is not over yet.
I cannot believe that today, my fifth book actually releases into the world and I got a chance to walk into a physical Barnes and Noble to grab a copy and sign some.
If this letter spoke to you, you can download it as part of a free resource guide I created to accompany my new book, From Dropout to Doctorate.
DisruptED Tour
Huge shoutout to the small group of people that came out to support the book gathering and conversation here in Atlanta. I’m grateful for your presence and the love you showed.
I also had the chance to record a live conversation with my sister, Latasha Morrison, and I’ll be sharing that right here on this Substack very soon. Stay tuned—it’s one you won’t want to miss.
I’m grateful to share that I’ll be in Chicago next week to talk about education and what it means to show up and serve communities facing homelessness, poverty, and deep need.
If you’re looking for a way to get involved:
Show up in person to support the book launch and students in Chicago.
Donate to Zion’s Closet and every item goes straight to students and helps us serve hundreds of children in a single school.
Volunteer by signing up to serve with Love Beyond Walls if you are in Atlanta.
Order the book and share it with someone who cares about students (Available Now).
And if nothing else—send prayers and positivity as we continue to do this work.
Book Dr. Lester to Speak [HERE]
Listen to the Imgaine Dignity Podcast [HERE]
I never stop learning. There are so many resources.
💕💕💕