February 4, 2015
Septuagenarian shows you’re never too old to learn
At 76, Joe Lester holds the distinction of being the oldest student to enrol at UOW in 2015.
"You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” At 76, Nowra resident Joe Lester is the living embodiment of C. S. Lewis’ famous quote. The father of four children, nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren holds the distinction of being the oldest student to enrol at UOW in 2015.
“My wife jokes that I’m a 19-year-old trapped in a 76-year-old body,” Joe said.
The septuagenarian graduated from UOW with Bachelor of Arts (with distinctions), majoring in English literature and History, in 2013 and is now about to embark on an Honours year.
For Joe, studying is beneficial for many reasons, especially for improving skills needed in an ever changing world.
“This is especially important for younger students embarking on their life’s career at university. But learning in your older years keeps your brain active,” he said. “And I love discussing ideas and socialising with the kids. I call anyone under 35 a kid.”
After taking a ‘gap year’ in 2014 to do some repairs around the house, Joe figured it was time to start study again.
“I get bored pretty easily, and I’m not getting any younger! I was keen to study more. It’s quite addictive.”
Having left school in the 1950s, Joe completed trades in fitting and machining, toolmaking, motor mechanics and welding, and said he never expected to be going to university, especially in his 70s.
“I was born in 1938, and grew up during World War II. I guess it is kind of funny sitting in history lectures and telling the lecturer and students what it was really like in the 1940s, 50s and 60s, because I was there!”
So does Joe find studying with students who are decades younger than him difficult?
“Age at university doesn’t really matter. But it is hard work and pretty stressful at times when assignments are due and tests are coming up. I suppose it shows even old buggers can get out there and do it,” he said proudly.
“Study has been pretty cool and I’m proud of what I have achieved so far.”
Joe also has advice for those thinking of retirement.
“Retiring was the worst thing I ever did. Unless you are a keen member of a number of clubs I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone. I suggest go and learn something, it’s better late than never.”
So what’s Joe’s next adventure?
“Last year I had the privilege of tutoring a few individual students through ITAS so after that experience, when I do my honours, I have a few options in mind. I would like to get involved in mentoring or teaching. I would like to give something back to the community,” he said.