An Australian man is set to become the world's oldest graduate for the second time at the age of 97. Allan Stewart initially set the world record in 2006 when he completed a law degree at the age of 91 and will break his own record when he receives his masters degree in clinical science.
He went back to school in his 80s to keep himself mentally active and finished this, his third degree in law, over a year sooner than typically required because he said that "time was of the essence and I better get a wriggle on in case I didn't make my graduation".
Interesting and remarkable as this feat undoubtedly is, you may well be wondering why we've decided to share the news. Well, as you all slave away over exams, or else scrabble around in search of internships and work, Mr Stewart's story provides quite a nice life lesson.
Think about it: if you are studying hard and find yourself getting stressed about your course or abilities, the message is it's never too late and you'll probably get another chance anyway.
That may sound a tad flippant but we mean it sincerely. Just look at Mr Stewart - this is his fourth degree after having completed a dentistry course in 1936. So, if at first you don't find yourself pursuing the best career path for you, you can always change. Be it now or in 76 years time.
To those of you who happen to have your mind made up, or even searching for work, there is a lesson in this little tale for you, too. Life it would evidently seem is quite often about the long haul. It may not seem a helpful observation now, but next time you bemoan the double-dip recession we find ourselves in, try and comfort yourself that it can't be bad forever.
At least, that's the theory.
Jordan, GRB Journalist
