Angerline Day, a 79-year-old retiree from Montgomery, Alabama, has proven that age is just a number by earning her bachelor’s degree after four years of hard work and dedication. Day, who had always dreamed of pursuing higher education, recently graduated from Troy University, achieving a lifelong goal that had eluded her for decades.
“I don’t give myself any expiration dates on anything,” Day told WITN, reflecting on her remarkable journey.
Day’s educational aspirations were put on hold after high school due to financial constraints. She initially enrolled at Alabama State University but was forced to drop out. Despite this setback, her passion for learning never waned. After retiring from a long career at JCPenney, Day found herself with an opportunity to return to school, thanks to the unwavering support of her family.
Her sons, recognizing her unfulfilled dream, encouraged her to pursue her education. “He said, ‘Well, mom, I’m not going to give you a Christmas present. I’m not going to give you a birthday present, so how about I send you back to school?'” Day recalled, highlighting the pivotal moment that reignited her academic ambitions.
With renewed determination, Day enrolled at Troy University and embarked on her journey to earn a degree in psychology, a subject she had long been passionate about. For the past four years, she studied diligently from her own bedroom, overcoming numerous challenges along the way, particularly with adapting to modern technology.
“I love to read. That’s not a problem, I’ll do the assignment, but now, I’m supposed to put it in this computer. How in the hell am I going to do that?” Day said, candidly sharing her struggles with the digital aspects of her coursework. Yet, her resolve never wavered.
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Despite moments of doubt and the feeling of failure creeping in, Day’s determination saw her through. “The feeling of failure kicked in, and I must do this for myself. This is the last opportunity. I’m going to do this,” she said, embodying a spirit of perseverance.
Day’s hard work culminated in her proudly receiving her diploma. She hopes her story will inspire others, especially those who feel that their time for new achievements has passed or who are struggling to envision a brighter future.
“Life is there because I’m probably close to the end… and I have to grab it as much as I possibly can while I can,” Day shared, emphasizing the importance of seizing every moment and opportunity.
Angerline Day’s achievement is a testament to the power of perseverance and the belief that it’s never too late to pursue one’s dreams. Her journey from a high school graduate with deferred ambitions to a college graduate at 79 serves as an inspiration to many, reminding us all that learning and personal growth have no age limit.