Older Adult in Georgia Achieves College Diploma, Demonstrating That It's Always Possible to Obtain a Higher Education Degree Regardless of Age
In the heart of Georgia, a 79-year-old woman named Patricia Sias Ellis proved that age is merely a number when it comes to chasing dreams. This remarkable woman graced the stage at Clayton State University as a college graduate, earning her bachelor's degree in criminal justice. But this wasn't your typical college journey; Patricia had been working towards this degree for several decades.
After graduating from high school, Patricia jumped straight into the workforce. Marriage and motherhood soon followed, pushing her own ambitions to the back burner as she supported her family. Her son, too, went on to graduate from Morehouse College, but Patricia's dreams took a backseat.
At 71, after her son playfully accused her of wasting away her days watching soap operas, Patricia decided it was high time she fulfilled her own dreams. She enrolled in college, starting at Atlanta Metropolitan State College and later transferring to Clayton State. Patricia's method was steady and deliberate, taking just one or two classes each semester.
Patricia faced numerous hurdles along the way, including a massive 10-pound tumor on her kidney that needed surgery. But she never faltered. In an interview with WXIA, Patricia said, "I just kept trudging along."
Patricia's age was often misconstrued, with fellow classmates assuming she was an instructor. Yet, this never hindered her from making friends or making her mark on campus. For Patricia, these experiences she missed out on in her youth were just as fulfilling at 79.
"These experiences I should have had at 19 or 20 years old, they are the same at 79 years old," she said. "I've had the best time."
Patricia's resilience and positivity are infectious. Dr. Georj Lewis, president of Clayton State University, remarked, "She lights up the room. She’s hard not to know."
Patricia plans to use her degree to educate her community about their rights, and she's even considering a master's degree. Her story serves as a powerful inspiration of determination, lifelong learning, and resilience in pursuing education later in life. Whether you're 19, 20, or 79, it's never too late to chase your dreams.
Southern Living featured Patricia Sias Ellis' inspiring story, highlighting her recent achievement in local news. In an article about education-and-self-development and personal-growth, Ellis' journey from a high school graduate to college graduate at the age of 79 showcases the importance of lifelong learning and pursuing one's dreams at any age.
