Dan Apple left the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 1990, just over halfway through his degree. More than three decades later, at age 55, he’s back in school and on track to graduate by the end of the year—thanks to a new initiative aimed at helping adults finish what they started.
Apple’s story is familiar to many. A strong student and high school co-valedictorian, he entered the workforce believing he could succeed without a diploma. He built a successful career in logistics and project management, but over time, he felt the absence of a degree. His work regularly brought him into contact with professionals holding MBAs, law degrees, and engineering credentials.
Apple is one of approximately one million North Carolinians who left college before earning a degree, according to the National Student Clearinghouse. To help address this, the University of North Carolina System has partnered with ReUp Education, a national company focused on re-engaging adult learners. Ten universities in the system, including Apple’s alma mater UNC Greensboro, are participating in the effort.
Apple found the process straightforward. “Within minutes of requesting information, I received an email and set up a call,” he said. He noted the stark changes in technology and learning styles since 1990, with modern education relying heavily on laptops and online learning platforms.
Now older and more focused, Apple said he’s a far better student than he was in his early twenties.
The program is seeing results. Since 2023, more than 600 North Carolinians have completed their degrees through the ReUp partnership. Shun Robertson, senior vice president for Policy and Strategy at the UNC System, confirmed that financial aid options have been made available through legislative funding.
“These are students who have already invested in their education but had to pause before completing their degree,” Robertson said. “ReUp gives us a proactive way to say, ‘We haven’t forgotten about you.’”
