AMERICA | 67 years old, Nevalene Burks from Indiana is proving that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.
53 years after dropping out of high school, she has returned to school to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Psychology at Martin University, United States.
At the age of 16, Burks dropped out of high school but later earned a GED (General Educational Development) certificate, which is equivalent to a high school diploma in the United States. Now, she is back in university with a strong desire to learn and make a difference.
“When I walk down these halls, I feel empowered. These halls have so much history. I don’t know anything about computers. As I told you, my phone is smarter than me, but I’m learning,” she said.
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Burks’ decision to return to school was fueled by a deeply personal experience. She recalled watching a news report about a woman she knew who was killed by her estranged husband.
“I was watching the TV and there was this young woman that I knew, not as a friend, but as an associate. She didn’t have to die,” Burks said.
Hearing this story reminded Burks of her own past experiences, and she felt a strong urge to take action. “You turn on the TV, and there’s another woman who has been killed or harmed. There are several killings every night,” she said.
Determined to be part of the solution, Burks enrolled at Martin University to gain the knowledge and skills needed to help others. For Burks, earning a bachelor’s degree is about more than just receiving a diploma—it’s about making an impact.
She attends classes two nights a week as her goal is to become a psychiatrist. Despite her old age, her energy and confidence stand out among her classmates.
“When I come in, what’s funny is, they’ll say, ‘Look at that old lady.’ I’m like, ‘Old lady? Are you kidding me? I’m young. What are you talking about?” she said.
“I’m not just looking for a degree to say I got a paper. I don’t even have to walk across the stage,” she added. Regardless of her age, Burks is determined to inspire younger generations and create meaningful change.
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