Learner Profile - Sidney De Jesus

Sidney DeJesus Sidney De Jesus has always known the value of a good education. The father of three children and step-father to four others, he encouraged each of them to pursue their passions and develop their talents.  He watched proudly as his son Brandon graduated from Sacramento State with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and a minor in French. He supported his daughter Brittany when she decided to leave dental hygienist training to follow her dream of being an artist. He encourages his eldest son Sidney II to pursue his dream of becoming a public servant, and his step-son Justin to become a rescue driver in the United States Navy.

But recently, Sidney, a sergeant in the Vallejo Police Department in Northern California, decided to focus on someone else’s education: his own.

After reading about UI&U’s Bachelor of Science in criminal justice management in a magazine for law enforcement professionals, Sidney enrolled, taking courses online and at UI&U’s Sacramento Center. This July, 18 months after learning about Union, Sidney will take part in UI&U’s California Commencement in Los Angeles, where he’ll walk onto the stage as a learner and depart as a college graduate.

“I know having a degree will open a lot of doors and provide me with greater expertise in my profession. Now I not only can talk the talk, but I can walk the walk,” said Sidney, who grew up in a hard-working, tight-knit family. Besides his children, he’s the first in his family to earn his college degree. “But ultimately, this was something I wanted to do for myself.”

Before enrolling at UI&U, Sidney tried attending another university, but he was unimpressed with the program offerings. After meeting with enrollment counselors at the Sacramento Center, he knew he had found a good fit at Union Institute & University.

“I enjoyed the flexibility of the online process and the relationships I built with my professors. I also liked how easy it was to navigate through the coursework. Every course was presented well, and I always knew what was expected,” says Sidney.

The degree didn’t come without hard work and some sacrifices along the way, and Sidney has advice for those ready to take the next step in advancing their education.

“It took a lot of dedication and determination to finish my degree. I think it’s important to give the decision a lot of thought and plan ahead. Talk to your family, and let them know that you’re going to need to make your studies a priority. Being an adult learner takes discipline and the ability to balance, but believe me, in the end, it is well worth it.”