Older College Students?

There are college students who are over 50 years old. My question to college students over 50 is:





What is the MAIN REASON for going to college after a certain age, say, 50, 55, 60, 65, etc?





What are you trying to prove?





I read about an 80-year old women taking differential equations at a local NYC college.





What does an 80-year old woman want with a college degree?

Older College Students?
Maybe they never had the opportunity to pursue a college education when they were younger. Military and familial obligations; possibly, financial restraints may have hampered higher education.





And, some of us like to continue our education because the old addage, "knowledge is power," still rings true. Some of us like to be kept entertained, challenged and happen to thrive in arenas of academia.





Btw, I'm only 25, but my godmother is over the age of 50 and enjoys going back to school to obtain another degree.
Reply:education for education's sake.





maybe they want to learn. education isn't just for getting the diploma and getting the job.





i had a classmate some semesters ago that was 60+ years old. she wanted to continue her bachelor degree because she was forced to stop when she was young for financial and family issues. but now that all her kids have their own families, she has time to study again.





i think it is very admirable when elder people still want to study or pursue higher studies. :D
Reply:I am over 50, retired and doing it purely for the fun of it.





Thanks


Bill
Reply:it's called accomplishing more in your life.
Reply:To enhance the skills or career they have to earn their full potential. However, your only as old as you feel but at any age it becomes a new personal challenge. Also, you never stop learning, if u do you will be living in ignorance. most of times some never got the opportunity. don't criticize you should recognize!
Reply:Maybe the 20 does it for money and the eighty does it for the sake of education.
Reply:Education is valued by many people. We're always learning, so what difference does it make to you whether we choose to learn in a classroom at a university, or through another venue? We don't care if you learn, so why should care if we learn? It seems you are rather selfish to think that college is only for 20 somethings. Our brains haven't fallen out yet, so what are we to do with them if you won't let us learn any more?





Delete this, but man! This is one of the most stupid questions I've ever seen here. Totally nuts!!!





(And just think....I'm not 80 or 90. I'd whomp you with my cane if I were.) ;-) LOL
Reply:There are many reasons why someone over 50 attends school. It could be that they always wanted to learn more on a subject, it could be that they always wanted a post secondary degree and it's never too late, it could be that they can now afford to attend, it could be a means to get out of the house and be social, or it could be because they want to keep their minds sharp!


There is a client that comes to the office I work in - and in his 50's he decided to go back to law school because it's something he's always wanted to do. He is now working in law and doesn't have any plans to retire. I can see him working into his 70's just because he now really truly enjoys what he is doing.


Anyone who has a desire to learn and expand their horizons should have that ability regardless of age. I am 33 and continuing my education - I'm doing it because I've always wanted a university degree and the area that I'm studying is of interest to me. It may open the doors to job opportunities down the road. I've always loved being a student and I've finished 4 college level programs so far. I'm now taking university - because it keeps my brain sharp.


Is your concern that these older students are taking up spots that younger students should have? Education is a great thing regardless of age.
Reply:I guess for self fulfillment and gratification.

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