'Just Can't Sit Around': This 85YO UK Woman Is Earning Her 4th Degree

Lucille Terry is an 85-year-old student of religious studies, philosophy and ethics at The Open University in Cirencester. After securing her degree in pharmacy at the University of Manchester in 1962, the enthusiastic learner is all set to graduate from university for the fourth time in her life. She has degrees in humanities, psychology and humanities with religious studies, and did a science foundation course at The Open University in 1972, and also has a teaching certificate. 

Why Terry Loves To Study

Speaking to BBC, the elderly student, who was once a teacher, said she could not bear the thought of sitting around doing crossword puzzles all day after her retirement. "I can't just sit around, do nothing and watch television all the time. I like studying. I do enjoy it, it's not a hardship for me," she added.

While many people tend to believe she is "brainy" because she continues studying, Terry asserts, "I'm not clever. I think in one or two of my Open University courses I got first-class honours. You don't have to be brilliant to do it." She hopes that her zeal could encourage more elderly persons to pursue their passions. 

Terry was recently honoured in a ceremony at the local parish. On May 20, she was presented with a framed letter in recognition of her dedication to studying and her amazing achievements by the Reverend Canon Graham and the Reverend Matt Frost. Terry expressed that she "couldn't believe" the honour.

She said, "I'm so pleased with it, and the more I can do to encourage older people to do something with their lives, something that challenges the brain, the better. If I have a day when I'm not studying, on the day that I do study I feel better, and that's something people aren't aware of. It can really do good for their brain."

The pro-vice chancellor of The Open University, Ian Pickup, wrote a letter to Terry, saying "Your pursuit of knowledge serves as a beacon of hope and encouragement to individuals of all ages, demonstrating that with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible." Indeed, Terry's passion is an inspiration to people of any age.