Nikki Gil has added another achievement to a career and life already filled with memorable milestones—this time, away from the spotlight and inside the world of design.

The singer, actress and television host has completed her Bachelor of Science in Interior Design at the SoFA Design Institute, turning a dream she began pursuing in 2016 into reality nearly a decade later.

Making the accomplishment even more meaningful, Nikki graduated with “Highest Distinction” and received the “Best Thesis” award, capping years of balancing her studies with marriage, motherhood and other responsibilities.

Looking back, Nikki admitted that completing the program did not always feel certain. Life changed considerably after she first enrolled, and there were moments when reaching graduation seemed far away.

“I started this journey in 2016, never knowing just how much LIFE would happen along the way. I had days when I wondered if I would ever actually finish. But God is good! He knew every season, every delay, every prayer,” she shared.

Her journey unfolded alongside some of the biggest chapters of her personal life. Nikki expressed gratitude to the people who supported her through the years, including her family, friends, classmates, professors and members of the school community.

She gave special recognition to her husband, BJ Albert, and their children, Finn and Maddie, whom she described as having “grew up alongside this degree.”

The achievement marks Nikki’s second college degree and comes before she turns 40—something she hopes will encourage others who may feel that the opportunity to return to school or chase an unfinished dream has already passed.

“Let this be your reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. Take it from Tita Nikki and her second degree before 40!” she said.

After a journey that stretched across almost 10 years and several seasons of her life, Nikki closed her message by giving credit to the faith that sustained her throughout the process: “To God be the glory!”