57-Year Old Grandmother Graduated From Norfolk State, Proving It's Never Too Late

Attending college later in life certainly has its challenges. As adults, we have financial responsibilities and family obligations to keep. But, don't lose faith! A 57-year old grandmother graduated from Norfolk State in December and she overcame all of these obstacles.

Darlene Pitts is a grandmother of 12 who worked two jobs while attending classes at the HBCU. It was no walk in the park and, as Pitts described it, this was "a rough four years." At one point, she found herself on academic probation. Pitts then sacrificed her second job at a Kroger grocery store to focus on her schoolwork and her other job as a special education teaching assistant at a local high school.

That experience was particularly upsetting but she was determined to graduate. "I came to work in tears because I got a letter saying I was on academic probation," she told the Virginian-Pilot. "Some of the classes, they were really rough," Pitts added. "I was ready to throw in the towel. I just wanted to call it quits, but I just hung in there."

Her hard work paid off as the 57-year old grandmother graduated from Norfolk State with a bachelor's degree in psychology. 

What's next for Pitts? She will likely continue her education and become a full-time special education teacher. "I love being in the classroom," she said. "I love being a student."

With that kind of positive attitude and determination, Darlene Pitts will likely achieve whatever goals she sets for herself. Salute!