In a remarkable milestone, 72-year-old Sam Kaplan has earned his undergraduate degree, marking a triumphant return to education over 50 years after finishing high school. Sam, who is the first in his family of eight siblings to achieve this academic feat, graduated from Georgia Gwinnett College in Lawrenceville, Georgia. His proud 99-year-old mother was there to celebrate this significant achievement with him.
Sam’s career journey is as varied as it is impressive. He began with a cleaning business, went on to found a telemarketing firm, and also worked as a cab driver and customer service representative. At the age of 68, Sam decided to return to school when he learned about Georgia Gwinnett College’s script writing degree program on the radio.
Navigating the academic world after so many years posed its challenges. Sam had to relearn study skills and adapt to being in a classroom with much younger students. Nevertheless, he met these challenges head-on by setting daily goals and building connections with his peers. His efforts in understanding and supporting his classmates fostered a strong sense of community.
Sam’s graduation ceremony was a testament to his hard work and perseverance, with his classmates giving him a standing ovation. His journey highlights the power of persistence and the value of lifelong learning, proving that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. Sam Kaplan’s story is not only a source of inspiration for those who know him but also leaves a lasting impact on his college community.
Sam Kaplan felt a mixture of excitement, nervousness, and determination throughout his academic journey. Returning to school at 68, he faced the daunting task of adjusting to a new learning environment and fitting in with much younger classmates. Despite these challenges, he remained steadfast in his commitment to his education. His emotions ranged from the anxiety of relearning study skills to the joy and pride of achieving his long-held dream. Ultimately, his graduation was a profound and fulfilling moment, marked by the pride of his 99-year-old mother and the admiration of his peers.
Sam Kaplan was motivated by a combination of personal ambition and a newfound opportunity. His desire to complete his education was reignited when he heard about Georgia Gwinnett College’s scriptwriting degree program on the radio. This opportunity sparked his long-held aspiration to pursue a degree and fulfill a dream he had set aside for decades.
Additionally, the chance to achieve something he had always wanted and to be the first among his siblings to earn a bachelor’s degree provided a strong drive. The support and pride of his 99-year-old mother, coupled with the challenges he faced, fueled his determination to overcome obstacles and succeed.
Sam Kaplan’s inspiring story reminds us that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. At 72, he not only returned to school after decades but also became the first in his family to earn a bachelor’s degree. His journey shows that with determination, resilience, and a bit of support, anyone can achieve their goals, no matter how old they are. Sam’s accomplishment is a powerful testament to the value of lifelong learning and the pursuit of personal aspirations.
