Vera Andrews first enrolled at North Carolina A&T in 1978. See what it took to earn her diploma.
GREENSBORO, N.C. — Earning a college degree is no easy hill to climb.
Vera Andrews is proving it’s never too late to graduate! Andrews says she is excited as a kid ready to open presents on Christmas day.
“Joy, joy, I’ve made it!” Andrews said.
Andrews began her educational journey nearly five decades ago, back in 1978 when she first entered North Carolina A&T State University in Greensboro. Despite facing challenges along the way, her dedication to learning never wavered.
Unfortunately, Andrews had to put her education on hold when her mother fell ill, leading her to temporarily drop out of school while she focused on her family. However, her passion for knowledge and her determination to succeed never faded.
Then, in 1987, her daughter Renee got into a car accident. Andrews put her hopes of getting a degree aside.
“I thought it was going to be the end for me but something kept pushing me,” Andrews said. “It never left my mind that I want to finish college.”
Fast forward to 2022, Andrews stumbled upon Aggies at the Goal Line program, a unique opportunity designed specifically for former A&T students who had paused their studies without completing their degree. This chance to finally achieve her goal of obtaining a bachelor’s degree reignited Andrews’ academic aspirations and provided her with a path to fulfill her long-awaited dream.
On Saturday, December 14, Andrews walked across the stage at 80 years old to receive her diploma. She says her family has been her biggest supporters — they’ve helped her, and in turn, she’s inspiring them.
“Even though you think, or everything is telling you to give up, just persevere,” Andrews’ granddaughter Kayla Phifer said.
Andrews graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts Studies. She said she wants to start a nonprofit to help those who have been underserved in her community.
At 80 years old, Andrews says she’s feeling great and looking forward to the future.
“I feel awesome, I feel blessed, and I can’t say nothing but praise the Lord,” she said.
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