Proving it's never too late, 81-year-old receives bachelor's degree

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The story of an 81-year-old grandmother who graduated from Tianjin University Distance Education on Sunday has captured the attention of Chinese social media, with many hailing her for her hard work.

Born in 1936, Xue Minxiu signed up for the course at the age of 77. “Call me classmate Xue Minxiu, not granny,” she told faculty at the university, according to Shanghai-based The Paper.

Photo from China News Service

During her four years of studies, she woke up at five in the morning and never watched television. “Study makes me happy. I gain knowledge as long as I study,” said Xue. Now she knows how to retouch photos with Photoshop and use Excel, and tried six times to pass a computer test.

The inspiring story has encouraged many Internet users in China.

Screenshot from comments on Weibo

On China’s leading social media platform Weibo, user @wokebushigebilaowangha said, “this is a real-life story of ‘it is never too old to learn.’”

@dongguanzhuoyuefangdichangongsi said “do you have any reasons not to work hard?”

@yutuotuofloriadexiaohuatian commented “I hope all college students cherish their study opportunities.”

At the same time, @zhendehuima said, “I feel ashamed when comparing myself with the granny.”

Photo from China News Service

As valedictorian, Xue spoke to her fellow classmates, telling them “I think the meaning of life is to constantly challenge myself and improve myself. I am grateful that Tianjin University gave me the opportunity to realize my dream since I was young.”

“The most important thing is to truly live your life, and not bend to others’ pressure and walk your own way…” Xue went on to say.