A Different Graduation Experience.
Sam Kaplan enrolled in college at the age of 68, starting him off on an extraordinary journey. He was ecstatic to receive his summa cum laude diploma in cinema and media arts from Georgia Gwinnett College this spring. Sam was overcome with happiness as the graduates loudly applauded, especially because his mother, who is 99 years old, was by his side.
Sam’s path to graduation was anything but typical. He had graduated from high school more than 50 years prior, and the last time he had been in a classroom was in the 1960s. Sam experimented with a number of jobs over the years, including operating a telemarketing company, operating a cab company, and working as an electronics wholesaler. He didn’t decide to pursue his first college degree until he was 68 years old.
Sam was driving down Collins Hill Road when he discovered the chance to return to school. He listened to a radio announcement about a degree in scriptwriting Georgia Gwinnett College was offering. Sam pulled over because he was curious, and five minutes later he had signed up for the upcoming fall semester. Sam recalled the incident and remarked, “My car seemed to be steering itself. I recognized this as a sign that I needed to take advantage of this chance. “.
Sam may have initially felt uneasy about starting college at an older age. It was intimidating to think that his classmates would be more than half his age. Sam, on the other hand, set himself daily objectives while making an effort to engage with younger students. Every day he would approach a different student, engaging them in quick conversations and suggesting they study together. Sam and his classmates developed deep bonds through shared experiences, growth, and understanding.
“I think I get along with them well. I got embraced by a lot of them on the last day of class,” Sam proudly remarked. Additionally, he showed interest in the long-term goals of his classmates by politely enquiring about them. Sam’s courteous and respectful demeanor aided in bridging the generational divide and promoted a positive learning environment.
Sam’s 99-year-old mother, Kate Balsley, as well as his newfound friends offered assistance. In addition to instructing Sam in some of her seminars at Georgia Gwinnett College, she also acted as a proud and adoring mother during the graduation ceremony. She watched her son receive his college diploma with tears of joy in her eyes, basking in parental love and awe.
Despite the fact that Sam’s academic career may have reached its current high point, he is always looking for fresh challenges. The 72-year-old graduate mentioned the possibility of continuing his education and even considering a master’s degree when asked about his future plans. Sam has always had a strong interest in screenwriting and has written two books. He stated in an interview, “I’ve always wanted to write and make stories come to life. I needed the skills to accomplish it, and college gave me those. “.
You can pursue your dreams at any time.
The inspiring tale of Sam Kaplan dispels the fallacy that one’s ability to pursue their goals is limited or hampered by age. Those who might be thinking about going back to school but are concerned that it’s too late find inspiration in him. It’s never too late to follow your dreams, according to Sam. “.
Sam’s story serves as a reminder that learning can take place at any age. Every person has the ability to move through life with optimism, hope, and faith in the future. So, if you’ve been holding onto a dream, think about Sam Kaplan’s journey and make the leap. Because, always keep in mind, it’s never too late to change the course of your story.
