When I was in school, my mother stressed education. I am so glad she did. I graduated from Yale College and Yale University with my master's and I didn't do it by missing school.

The quote by Angela Bassett reflects her gratitude toward her mother for instilling the value of education in her from a young age. Bassett credits her mother’s emphasis on the importance of education as a key factor in her academic success. She acknowledges that the discipline to prioritize school, and not miss classes, played a significant role in her academic achievements, which include graduating from Yale College and later earning a master’s degree from Yale University.

Bassett's statement underscores the importance of consistent effort and commitment to school, as she mentions that she didn’t reach her academic milestones by skipping or neglecting her responsibilities. Her success was a result of staying dedicated and following through with her education, a principle she learned from her mother. This reinforces the idea that education requires hard work and discipline, qualities that are often cultivated by strong parental guidance and values.

The origin of this quote comes from Bassett’s reflections on her upbringing and her experience in higher education. Known for her remarkable acting career, Bassett’s academic background in theater from a prestigious institution like Yale is often cited as a foundation for her success in the entertainment industry. Her mention of both Yale College and Yale University shows the depth of her academic commitment, as she pursued both undergraduate and graduate studies, which likely prepared her for the challenges she would later face in her career.

Ultimately, Bassett’s words emphasize the lifelong value of education, not just as a means of gaining knowledge, but also as a way to develop key life skills such as perseverance, discipline, and commitment. Her quote speaks to the importance of parental influence in shaping one’s approach to education and how that influence can lead to significant academic and personal success.