Inspiring Journey: Arlyne's Remarkable Graduation at 85 Years
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Chapter 1: A Journey of Determination
At the age of 85, Arlyne Frankel proudly graduated from Florida International University (FIU), realizing a long-held dream. Reflecting on her journey, she recalls how she paused her education at 18, stating, "I’ll come back, just not now."
She was determined to return for her degree someday. After taking a break from work at 79, she felt a renewed sense of possibility. “I thought I would work until I die, but then I had the space to consider other options,” she shared in an interview with Good Morning America (GMA).
Section 1.1: The Decision to Return
So, why did she choose to go back to school at 79? Life had thrown numerous challenges her way, but deep down, she felt that there would be a right time to act on her dreams. "I knew in my heart it would happen," she expressed.
Subsection 1.1.1: Navigating Campus Life
Arlyne opted not to live on campus, commuting from her home just 20 minutes away. To foster connections with her younger classmates, she attended a camp designed for freshmen and transfer students. This experience helped her acclimate to university life.
A significant concern for her was whether the younger students would be welcoming. She was pleasantly surprised by their kindness and support, stating, “I did not realize how nice they would be. I fell in love with the experience."
Section 1.2: Lessons Learned
Arlyne's journey is an inspiring testament that it is never too late to pursue one's goals. Life may present obstacles that can derail plans, but if you have a dream, it’s essential to take steps to achieve it. When reflecting on the past, it’s easy to get caught up in regrets, but Arlyne serves as a reminder that it's never too late to start anew.
Chapter 2: Celebrating Milestones
This video showcases Arlyne's inspiring story of returning to school and achieving her college degree at the age of 85.
In this video, we see another incredible story of an 85-year-old graduate from Virginia Tech, highlighting the power of lifelong learning and determination.