MANILA, Philippines – As they say, age is not a hindrance to achieving sufficient education and reaching dreams. As long as you're still breathing in this world, and your willpower and body are capable, why should you stop pursuing your dreams?
Roberto "Bobby" Solis, who began his studies at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) back in 1979, has finally finished his A.B. Journalism degree as a member of the Class of 2025. Now 64 years old, Solis already graduated from the Faculty of Arts and Letters after more than four decades since he first enrolled.
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| Photo courtesy: The Varsitarian, The Flame (Facebook) |
As reported by "The Varsitarian," UST’s official student publication, Solis left the university years ago to pursue various jobs, including working as a fashion adviser with a focus on fur.
He was able to complete his remaining 23 academic units by December 2024.
“Fantastic. At the same time, it was nerve-wracking. Pero I got used to the feel of the University again. For four decades, hinahanap ko siya. Nalungkot ako noong matatapos na 'yong semester," he shared with Varsitarian.
When asked what was most important to him during his return to school, Solis responded:
“Patience. ... UST has taught me to really recalibrate my brain."
“This achievement means a great gift for my parents, although they’re gone — but you know, I’m having goosebumps while I’m thinking about it. It’s a great gift for my parents and also an inspiration for those people whom I didn’t know I have given inspiration [because,] despite my age, [I achieved] something awesome,” Solis tells The Flame, the official school daily of UST Faculty of Arts and Letters.
Many netizens, especially those who are also older and currently studying, were inspired by his story.
Congratulations, Bobby!
— Noel Ed Richards, The Summit Express