Education, World News

Lucille Terry: The 85-Year-Old Pursuing Her Fourth University Degree

Published by Tope Fakinlede on May 30th, 2024.

Lucille Terry: The 85-Year-Old Pursuing Her Fourth University Degree

Lucille Terry, an 85-year-old resident of Cirencester, is currently working on her fourth university degree, driven by her refusal to “just sit around.”

Ms. Terry began her academic journey in 1962 with a pharmacy degree from the University of Manchester. She is on track to complete her fourth degree, the third one from The Open University, well into her nineties.

On Monday, Ms. Terry was honored at her parish church for her remarkable achievements. Formerly a teacher, she is now studying religious studies, philosophy, and ethics.

Living in Siddington Park, Ms. Terry also holds degrees in humanities, psychology, and humanities with religious studies. In 1972, she completed a science foundation course at The Open University before earning her teaching certificate. She chose not to spend her retirement doing “just crossword puzzles.”

“I can’t just sit around and watch television all day,” she remarked. Her passion for learning was sparked by a question from her daughter about her interests. “I like studying. I do enjoy it; it’s not a hardship for me,” she explained.

Ms. Terry often encounters the assumption that she is exceptionally intelligent because of her academic pursuits. “I’m not clever,” she insists. “I wasn’t top of my class in school, just average. Although, I did receive first class honors in some of my Open University courses. You don’t have to be brilliant to succeed.”

On May 20, she was awarded a framed letter by Reverend Canon Graham and Reverend Matt Frost, recognizing her dedication to education. Ian Pickup, the pro-vice chancellor of The Open University, commended her, stating, “Your pursuit of knowledge is a beacon of hope and encouragement to people of all ages, showing that with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible.”

Ms. Terry, who studies remotely, expressed her surprise at the recognition and hopes to inspire her peers. “I’m thrilled and want to encourage older individuals to engage in activities that challenge their minds. Studying makes me feel better, and many don’t realize the mental benefits it brings,” she shared.