Italy’s Oldest Student And WWII Veteran Finishes College Degree At 96

Aug 18, 2020

In Sicily, Italy, an old man named Guiseppe Paternò earned his college degree in historical and philosophical studies at the University of Palermo at the age of 96 this summer. He became Italy's oldest student by doing so. The graduate is also a veteran of World War II. He graduated with top honors and high scores.

Paternò was always driven, even at a young age. After a stay in the Italian Navy, he left active service behind when he was in his 20s, as The New York Times reports. Paternò worked as a railroad worker afterwards. As he grew older, he never forgot his dream of getting a university degree and as he gained more and more years, he realized he would simply have to go for it.

Paternò then decided to earn a degree by going to college. There was no more time to waste, as he was over 90 years old already. Paternò enrolled for his degree, and alongside a younger generation of learners, he studied hard and pushed forward.

In the video, Paternò is seen beaming with joy, as he should, despite looking frail as he walks across the stage to receive his college degree. He could not stop smiling during the graduation ceremony. He was given a wreath made of red ribbons and greenery while receiving his degree. Everyone at the ceremony seemed happy for him and seemed to share in his joy.

Paternò's story is an inspiration to many. Anyone of any age could go to college if they apply themselves. While his studies were certainly no walk in the park, especially as the pandemic swept Italy, he managed to push through.

This is a reminder that there is always a way to get something that you desire if you want it bad enough. Paternò's journey will hopefully push others to strive forward as well.

Most people have dreams and ambitions that they never end up pursuing for various reasons. Everyone has what it takes to do well, and it is a shame that we do not pursue our goals. Staying determined and working hard is really what it takes. Even if you think you are too old to try something new, most of the time this is not the case.

The elderly are often, unfortunately, discouraged by family members and friends from pursuing their goal of a college education. These people are full of doubt towards their seniors with the reason that an older student could not possibly make use of a degree.

Seniors who decide to go back to school past the age of 70 years do not do it so as to make use of the degree but rather as a personal accomplishment of doing something great, and feeling the satisfaction this gives them. Going back to school also helps these elderly students to keep their minds sharp by learning new things.

It took Paternò three years to complete his degree despite his final year being disrupted by the worldwide pandemic. His story is a true inspiration. Pass this story along to your friends and family to inspire them as well! And let us know: Do you personally know a non-traditional student like Paternò?