by Jeanice Brad, photographed by Erica Jackson

     After raising three children and putting two of them through prestigious schools (Smith and Yale), Carlos Cubas decided that it was time to get his own world-class education. He began GS in 1999 after a recommendation from his wife, who worked at the University.

     "It was funny because at the same time I began school, my son was going to Yale."  He sympathized with his son, who sometimes complained about the time crunch and other pressures of academic life. "[Before starting school myself] I would always say to him, 'Oh please it's not that bad'.  But when I finally got here, I finally understood." Carlos smiles, when he thinks of the support his wife gave him. "When I first got here, I wasn't very computer literate.  My wife taught me a lot, as well as showed me the ropes around the university.  She was a big help."

     A legal recruiter for the Tuttle Agency, Carlos puts in 40-50 hour work weeks, so going to school, even at half or three-quarters time, is a challenge within itself. However, one of the biggest challenges he faced was the distinct way the GS student was treated by non-GS students and faculty.  "People thought GS students were weird, old…different. They'd be like, 'Oh he's GS…' and we stand out because we were less social."

     Some of Carlos' challenges have been dealing with the stress and fatigue of work and his hectic commute.  "You can't come to class in pajamas."  Carlos says it is difficult to become socially integrated with peers as a GS student, "You have to pretty much go through this by yourself."  While the social scene for GS students was nearly non-existent when he first entered the program, Carlos says it has improved within the last few years.  However, he says, "I'd like to see more social events for people who work 9-5 jobs every weekday." 

     Although he has found it hard to connect with fellow GS students, Carlos has received a lot of support from his advisors.  Associate Dean Dominic Stellini offered him encouraging words about his impending graduation next year.  "He told me he was proud of me and that I had come a long way."

     Why did Carlos, after an established life as a husband and father, and a busy career, choose to throw his whole life into upheaval to start college?  What was his motivation? Writing.  "The writing program is phenomenal!" he said. 

After graduating, the Literature-Writing major says, "I'd like to teach, but first I want to get my Master's degree."  He laughs, "GS makes you addicted to stress.  And addicted to learning." 

Of his GS peers, Carlos says, "There is no typical student.  That's what makes it great!"  He offers some advice to incoming GS students.  "Come into this wholeheartedly.  No fear.  Think about your aims, conquer your fears and get it done."