Roberto Fernandez enrolled at Florida International University in 1972, but his accounting business and family responsibilities kept him away from classes.
Despite challenges, Fernandez didn’t give up on earning a bachelor’s degree and graduated on Tuesday at the age of 85.
“Because of my work, I couldn’t finish, and with one course to go, I had to quit, and I had to keep on working,” Fernandez said.
Fernandez’s son, an assistant college professor at FIU’s College of Business, motivated him to enroll in the interdisciplinary studies program.
“All this time, all these years, I never forgot about it, and I felt bad because I didn’t do it at that time,” Fernandez said.
On Tuesday, during a commencement ceremony, Fernandez was the final graduate and got a standing ovation from all of those present.
Fernandez had a message for anyone who may be in a similar situation.
“Don’t give up,” Fernandez said. “Keep on trying until you succeed.”
