Granny Who Dropped Out Due to Money Issues Returns to University, Earns Degrees at 84 and 89

A determined 89-year-old woman, Joan Donovan from Florida, USA, who had to drop out of university due to financial difficulties earned a bachelor’s degree and Master’s degree after returning to complete her education.

Joan Donovan, a determined woman from Florida, USA, who had to drop out of university due to financial difficulties, returned to complete her education, earning a bachelor’s degree at 84 and a master’s degree at 89.

Joan, a military spouse and breast cancer survivor, finished high school at 16 but couldn’t afford college. “When I graduated from high school, I was told there was no money in the family to send me to college,” she said.

After raising her six children, Joan resumed her studies, first earning an associate’s degree from a community college and then a bachelor’s degree.

She later obtained a master’s degree in English and creative writing online from Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), though she did not attend the graduation ceremony in person.

The university and her family celebrated her achievement with a special event. Joan wore a cap and gown and walked to music, thanks to the university’s efforts after her son requested a diploma frame as a Christmas gift.

The school sent not only a framed diploma but also 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,” Joan said.

Her son humorously noted, “Gee mom, I owe you a Christmas gift because I got out of that one pretty cheap.”

Joan is now using her degree to write a rom-com novel and an autobiography about overcoming life’s obstacles. Reflecting on her journey, she said, “Well, I waited 60 years to fulfill my dream. So I hope others don’t have to wait that long.”

Maintaining a 3.8 GPA for her master’s, Joan, who has 10 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, emphasized the importance of being 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 advised.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, SCHOLARSHIP REGION