For many newly minted college graduates, putting on their caps and gowns marks the beginning of their lives in "the real world." But Bored Panda has compiled a list of people who probably didn't need the life advice that commencement speakers are giving out — they already got the experience. From a 98-year-old getting his high school diploma, to a 70-year-old college grad, these folks are living proof that you're never too old to learn.
#1 This 98-Years-Old Man Never Got To Get His High School Diploma Because He Was Drafted In World War II His Senior Year And He Finally Got It Today
Report
140points
Many people assume that skill development is age sensitive and is relevant only to those who are starting their career or chasing a promotion. But that's not really the case. It’s always a good idea to nurture your skills, not just to keep you ahead of the competition but also to keep your mind active and sharp.
#2 97-Year-Old Woman Cries Tears Of Joy After Finally Getting Her High School Diploma
Margaret Thome Bekema, 97, never graduated from Grand Rapids Catholic Central High in 1936 like she was supposed to. Instead, in 1932, she was forced to leave school to take care of her siblings and her mother who was sick with cancer. However, thanks to a distant relative, Bekema recently received an honorary diploma, just 79 years after she was supposed to graduate.
Report
125points
When you are older, you generally know what you want. Making a choice to learn rather than feeling like it is expected of you makes a big difference to your outlook. Just knowing that learning is what you want makes it easier to motivate yourself when you're facing challenging times. And precisely this attitude, of needing to satisfy nobody but yourself, is a wonderfully liberating part of old age.
#3 72 Years After Being Forced Into An Internment Camp During WWII, This Couple Received Their High School Diplomas
Report
121points
#4 My Grandmother, 77, Graduated With Her PhD And Is The University’s Oldest Graduate. It’s Never Too Late!
Report
116points
#7 The Best Part Of My Graduation Ceremony Last Month. She Got A Standing Ovation
Report
106points
#9 My Dad Just Graduated At The Age Of 71. My Mum Wanted A Nice Picture Of 'Her Boys'
Report
96points
#11 My Mom Graduating From Law School In America At 55, Thirteen Years After Immigrating In Exile From Venezuela
Report
85points
#13 My 72-Year-Old Dad Graduated College With Honors Last Weekend
He is a Vietnam era veteran and a first generation college graduate.
Report
77points
#15 Single Mother Of 5 Proudly Poses With Children In Her Law School Graduation Photo
Report
74points
#16 WWII Vet Got High School Diploma At 93
It’s never too late to graduate, and Glenn Holtz, 93-year-old World War II veteran proved that during a graduation ceremony at an Illinois high school when he walked across a stage with high school seniors to get his diploma 75 years after he originally attended high school.
Report
73points
#18 When My Grandmother Became The Oldest Graduate Of East Tennessee State University At The Age Of 87 Year Old
Report
66points
#19 Two Graduates
This is my mom and older brother. I am extremely proud of both of them. I am especially proud of my mom. She is a mother of 8 and managed to go back to school while working full time. She inspires me and everyone around her to work hard and never give up . I hope this will show others that it is never too late to back to school.
Report
62points
