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OAL Cap and Gown Stories

A Degree Built on Love, Loss, and Determination

June 1, 2026
By zz-api-account

More than a Diploma

Paige Watts

"Earning my degree has shown me that no matter the struggles life may have thrown my way whether that’s the loss of my significant other a semester before graduation, the birth of my first child, or just navigating life as a single mom, that I can and will do anything to better my life and the future of my son."

 

Paige Watts with her family collage

When Paige graduated this spring with her Bachelor of General Studies in Criminal Justice, she carried far more than a diploma across the stage. She carried the memory of a loved one, the hopes she holds for her son, and the strength she discovered through one of the most difficult chapters of her life. Just a month before entering her final year, Paige’s life was upended when she lost her significant other in a devastating car accident.

The grief was overwhelming. It would have been easy—even understandable—to step away, pause her dreams, and let the weight of the loss pull her under. But Paige chose a different path.

“Along with every other challenge I ever faced during my time at WSU, this was by far the hardest to navigate,” Paige recalled. “I leaned on family and friends, but I also leaned into my grief. I allowed myself to feel the hurt and to channel it to push me—and remember that he truly believed that I could achieve anything I could put my heart and soul into.”

Among those who helped her through was her mother, who became her greatest source of strength. When doubt crept in, she reminded Paige how proud she was of the woman, mother, and student she had become. She reassured her that the work and sacrifices she was making mattered, and that she needed to stay strong for her son.

Rather than letting grief pull her away from her goals, Paige carried those words and his memory into her assignments, discussions, and projects.

Ultimately, her degree became much more than an academic achievement—it became the foundation for the future she and her son are building together. It reflects a resilience born from unimaginable loss, a mother’s fierce love, and the quiet comfort of a guardian angel whose memory still inspires every step of their journey

As the excitement of graduation settled in, another layer of meaning emerged. Her dad and bonus mom were also Shocker graduates, making this moment feel even more special. Now, they share not just memories, but a legacy — binding their family together through tradition, triumph, and Shocker pride.

Congratulations, Paige! Thank you for sharing your strength with the WSU community. We look forward to celebrating your continued success.

Behind the Cap: Paige's Q&A

What challenges did you overcome along the way and how did you navigate them?

"I lost my significant other July 2025 due to a horrible car accident. Along with every other challenge I ever faced during my time at WSU, this was by far the hardest to navigate. I leaned on family and friends but I also leaned into my grief. I allowed myself to feel the hurt and to channel it to push me and remember that he truly believed that I could achieve anything I could put my heart and soul into. I brought him up regularly in discussions or projects to remind myself that he is my biggest reason to keep going, to keep pushing. He would’ve wanted the most for my son and I, so it’s solely up to me to carry on through this journey we call life with him as our guardian angel."

Who Supported you the most during your time as a student?

"My mom. She was always there through thick and thin. Without her, I don’t know how I could’ve survived. She always let me know how proud she was of me during the times I felt I was struggling the most to encourage me to keep going. She reminded me to stay strong for my son and to keep going because the end result will be worth it."

What advice would you give to future adult and online learners?

"Don’t struggle alone. Have a good foundation of support and even if you don’t have anyone you can lean on, I’m always open to be a part of a support system. I know how isolating life can feel and nobody deserves to go through it alone."

 

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