A Savvy Woman for the Ages

Guest Blogger: Myrna Brady - 78 Year old College Student

I have twelve earned degrees and you are probably saying “wow” how did that happen? The twelve degrees were earned by my husband and our six daughters and I was an integral part in their accomplishments. 

When my husband died in 2004 after a five year battle with cancer, I decided to return to school.  I had graduated from Wilson Junior College (now Kennedy-King community college) in Chicago over 50 years ago.  I received my Associated Degree from Wilson Jr. College and thought with that accomplishment I could enroll at Governor’s State University in University Park, IL. 

I applied and filled out the necessary papers but was informed that because I had been out of school for so long, that I should go to the local junior college, to see if I could handle college level work. I took the challenge and enrolled at Prairie State Junior College and while there, I attended 3 classes, earning an A in two of the classes and a B in another.

With these grades I was able to enroll at Governors State University in the fall of 2006.  I took the required classes in science, math and humanities, upon completion of the requirements I am now taking elective classes.  The instructors that I have had presented some very interesting and challenging classes.

I have learned to write proper essay papers, I have also become more computer savvy, since all papers have to be typed on the computer.  I have also learned how to do research for my papers using scholarly journals and other information. 

I have made the Dean’s List for the past two trimesters.  In order to be on the Dean’s List you must have a 3.7 GPA, I currently have a 4.0 GPA.

An individual is never too old (she is currently 78) to go back to school and learn something new.    I have been challenged, stimulated and grown since returning back to school and I thank and praise my God for making it all possible and also for the support of my family and friends.

If all goes well, I shall be walking across the stage receiving my diploma in the spring of 2010.