Think you’re too old to get another degree? Meet Felipe Espinosa Tecuapetla

Here’s your feel-good engineering story of the week. Felipe Espinosa Tecuapetla, a former soldier and shopkeeper from Puebla, Mexico, just completed his degree in process engineering and industrial management. Oh, and he’s 84-years young.

Tecuapetla, was inspired by his engineer son to pursue his degree. The elder’s goal is to continue improving and not be stagnant, even as he’s growing older. The goal, however, was not easy to achieve. He began studying at the Meritorious Autonomous University of Puebla (BUAP), in San Jose Chiapa, the largest and oldest university in the state, when he was 79. The task ahead would appear daunting to most of us. He woke up each morning at 4:30 AM to catch the bus to the university’s campus, two hours away from his home. He had never used a computer, taught himself how to use it, becoming a “whizz.”

While receiving his first degree is a great accomplishment, Tecuapetla is not satisfied. He is even considering going for a master’s degree.

I’m in awe.

Original Release: Greek Reporter