AMERICA| An exceptional 81-year-old woman, Janice Hall has fulfilled her lifelong dream after earning a Bachelor’s degree from Bethel University in Minnesota, United States, 50 years after she initially enrolled.
Janice, now a mother of three, grandmother to 14, and great-grandmother to 17, had always dreamed of completing her college education. However, life’s responsibilities led her down a different path, prioritizing her career and family.
Despite never needing a degree for her career, the desire to finish what she started remained with her. “I had time on my hands. I had a very good career over those years of working,” Janice said.
”Nobody ever asked me for a degree in terms of the things that I did, career-wise, so I just continued to work and do what I knew best and succeeded in that. But it was always in the back of my mind to finish college. And now, I did,” she added.
Join any of these WhatsApp Groups to receive more good news on WhatsApp
Shemade graduating a more important focus again after she retired nine years ago. “I was doing nothing, and got bored, so I thought this was a good opportunity to finish what I started,” she said.
Janice initially started her degree in 1973 until a serious car accident prevented her from finishing school. She went on to take a job and build her family.
She had a long career in human resources and worked under some of South Bend’s mayors. Over the years, Janice faces some challenges including battling a stroke, surviving breast cancer twice, and the loss of her husband.
Janice’s son, Michael Patton, described his mother as a resilient and persistent woman who has consistently met challenges throughout her life. His sister, Michelle Patton Johnson added that their mother is very dedicated and focused.
“I remember talking to her on the phone when she would be writing her papers, and she was so dedicated, she would say, ‘I have to get off the phone now, I have to go do my homework,” she said.
While she was walking on the stage, Janice received roaring applause and was described as an inspiration. She wants others to know that they are capable of anything they put their mind to.
”My age and my disability has not defined me. There’s much more for us to do, even as older individuals. We have wisdom that we can share with the younger generation,” she said.
Janice said her educational journey is not over yet, as she will be returning to Bethel University to study for a master’s degree in Ministry. “I give God all of the glory. He did it, he did it,” Janice said.
“At this age, I certainly don’t plan to do another career, but I’m glad that I did this now. It’s come closer to match what I promised myself,” she added.
Receive Scholarship Updates through our Social Media Channels:
- WhatsApp: Scholarship Region WhatsApp
- Facebook: Scholars Region
- Twitter: @scholarsregion
- Telegram: Scholarship Region