After 50 years of dropping out, an 81-year-old man returns to school and earns exceptional grades.
Fifty years after dropping out of the University of South Florida St. Petersburg (USF) program, Way Bandy, an 81-year-old grandfather, has finally earned a Bachelor of General Studies degree.
Way Bandy initially enrolled in the Bachelor’s degree program in 1974, but he dropped out when he needed to complete just one course to graduate in 1978. He clarified that he left education in order to marry and have a family.
Way Bandy’s mother was not happy with the way he left school, so she made sure he promised her that he would go back to get his bachelor’s degree. He claims that his mother instilled in him the value of always speaking with honor.
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“Bless my mother’s heart … “Your health and your word of honor are the two most important things,” mom instilled in me as a child. “I want your word of honor that one day you’ll go back and get your degree,” she told me, according to Bandy’s narration.
Bandy fulfilled his duty to his mother, who passed away in 2003. He kept his word to his mother and returned to the University of South Florida St. Petersburg (USF) fifty years after dropping out, graduating with honors.
Many people were encouraged to realize that it is never too late to get an education by his graduation at such a young age.
In celebration of his accomplishment, Bandy says he wants to encourage other students—regardless of age or generation—to finish school if given the chance.
He suggested, “Take your time, stay ahead of your goal, and make a self-promise that you will finish.” “Do whatever inspires you to do it. From the bottom of my heart, I swear that anyone can succeed if I can.
