When a flyer about a new tuition-free college program arrived at the Williams household, Rashawn Williams’ mother didn’t hesitate. She snapped a photo of it and sent it straight to her son.
“My mom sent me a screenshot of a flyer they sent to her house saying going to college would be totally free if your major was in high demand,” Williams recalled. “So I knew I had to do it.”
That simple message set Williams, 29, on a path he once thought might have passed him by. Today, the Syracuse native is studying Computer Information Systems at Onondaga Community College, with plans to complete his degree in fall 2026.
Williams is attending OCC tuition-free thanks to SUNY Reconnect, the community college program for students between the ages of 25 and 55 who have not yet earned a college degree. It covers the cost of tuition, fees, books, and supplies after all other financial aid is applied.
His college journey began more than a decade ago, shortly after graduating from the Syracuse Academy of Science in 2014. He enrolled at St. Bonaventure University but left after just one semester. “There were a lot of distractions. I was young, and I wasn’t taking it seriously.”
Williams began working full-time and built a career in the transportation and construction supply industry. He earned a commercial driver’s license and now works at Paragon Supply, where he drives a Class B flatbed truck delivering construction materials. When he’s not on the road, he works in the yard helping customers and moving inventory.
But the idea of finishing college stayed in the back of his mind, especially because of a long-standing interest in technology. “I always loved computers and cybersecurity. I always wanted to work for the FBI or something like that.”
The SUNY Reconnect program allowed Williams the opportunity to pursue his degree without taking on new financial burdens, while continuing to work full -time.
Even so, he was hesitant about returning to a classroom after so many years away. “At first, I was nervous,” he admitted. “But I walked into my first class, saw a lot of people my age, and that anxiety went right out the window.”
In addition to his coursework at OCC, Williams is expanding his skills even further. He is enrolled in a 12-month Microsoft program training to become a full-stack software developer. It's another step toward building a career in the technology field.
Balancing school and work can be demanding, but Williams says the opportunity is worth it. “I love it,” he said. “If it wasn’t for Reconnect, I wouldn’t be doing this. I would be at my job for the next 20 years.” Instead, he’s building a future that once felt out of reach.
Williams encourages other adults who may be thinking about returning to school to take a chance on themselves. “It’s never too late,” he said. “If you read this story and are interested, call up and look into it. It’s changing my life to be able to take courses absolutely free. I don’t have to spend a dollar on anything.”
