To keep her brain active, this 90-year-old grandmother returned to earn associate degree at US university

“It was something I had never done before. College was something completely new to me, but my family wanted me to keep my mind sharp—and I’m so glad I listened,” she recalled.

And immediately, she resumed, Rita quickly became an inspiration to both students and faculty. She navigated virtual classes, health challenges, and personal losses, all while keeping her sense of humor and drive intact.

Her professors describe her as attentive, inquisitive, and deeply engaged. “I was fortunate to learn from inspiring and dedicated professors whose encouragement played a key role in my success,” she said.

Even when learning felt overwhelming, Rita pushed through with persistence. To stay mentally active outside the classroom, she played crossword puzzles and Wordle daily activities that helped sharpen her focus and strengthen her memory.

Rita’s achievement is not just personal; it continues a growing family legacy of education at MSJC. Her granddaughter graduated in 2022, her great-granddaughter in 2024, and now her great-grandson will begin classes at the same school in the same year.

Rita’s family proudly calls her “the matriarch of motivation” because of her role as a good mother. Also, she is a grandmother to 12 grandchildren and 7  great-grandchildren, many of whom attended her graduation ceremony with pride.

“It was unbelievable. The support I received at MSJC—from the professors, my family, and even younger students—made me feel like I truly belonged,” she said.

Rita hopes her story inspires others, especially older adults, to embrace education at any stage of life. “It’s never too late to learn. The brain doesn’t stop growing unless you stop using it,” she said.