A determined woman named Joan Donovan in the United States who previously dropped out of university due to financial challenges pushed hard and returned to earn her bachelor’s degree at 84 and later obtained her master’s degree at 89 years old.
After her six children were grown and moved away, she decided to resume her studies. First, she obtained her associate’s degree from a community college after which she earned a bachelor’s degree.
She proceeded to bag her master’s degree in English and creative writing online from Southern New Hampshire University (SHNU). For her graduation, Joan was not present at the university.
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Joan wore a cap and gown and walked to music in a celebration courtesy of the university and her family. She said the university heard she was graduating when her son called the school to ask for a frame for her diploma as a Christmas present this year.
However, the school decided to send more than just a framed diploma, but a cap and gown, cupcakes, balloons, and university spirit wear. “Took me two days to recuperate from it because of the whole wonderful, wonderful event that they planned. I just can’t tell you how excited I was,” she said.
“And the funny part is, my son said to me the other day, ‘Gee mom, I owe you a Christmas gift because I got out of that one pretty cheap,'” said Donovan. She mentioned that she is using her new degree to write a rom-com novel as well as an autobiography.
“Well, I waited 60 years to fulfill my dream. So I hope others don’t have to wait that long,” she said. Joan added that her autobiography will be about overcoming the roadblocks of life.
Joan who has 10 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren maintained an impressive 3.8 grade point average for her master’s,
She stated that the most important things she’s learned in life are to be a “lifelong learner” and a “lifelong laugher.” “Don’t ever give up. I mean, if something doesn’t work the first time, just try it again. And eventually, you’ll find your dream come true,” she said.
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