More exams — Oh yes!
MALA ASHOK
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Nola Ochs found the chance to finish her degree, begun in 1930, was irresistible.
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May 12 was an exceptional day as this was the day when 95-year-old Nola Ochs made history by becoming the world’s oldest graduate. She obtained a degree in History from the Fort Hays State University in Kansas, U.S.
When she was told that she’d now be in the Guinness Book of World Records, as the oldest person to finish college, she replied, “I’m not finished yet. I have to get my Master’s Degree!” Nola has plans t
o work first as a story-teller on a cruise ship. She feels it’ll be a great way to see the world. “Also,” she quips “they can’t turn me down for not having experience!”
Living history
Speaking of ‘experience,’ hers proved to be invaluable, not only for Nola but her classmates in the ‘History of the Soviet Union’ class. The professor was excited to have Nola in his class. “She brings an interesting perspective to my history class, because she has lived it!”
Born in 1911, Nola always loved to learn. But since she was born in a farming family, she got married, became a mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She put her ambitions on hold.
When her husband died in 1972, she decided to resume her degree, which she had started by correspondence in 1930. She took a few courses and enjoyed the learning experience.
She moved over 150km from home and started attending college. She kept plugging away till she got the required number of courses to satisfy the degree requirements.
She is happy that not only is she graduating, but she is doing so in the same year as one of her granddaughters.
When asked to comment about her feat, Nola says, “Age is just a number. You’re never too old for anything!”
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