You're never too old to realize your dreams.
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Consider the case of John Adesoye. On Wednesday, July 15, the 64-year-old graduated with a nursing degree apprenticeship at the University of the West of England (UWE) in Bristol, England.
Adesoye also attended the school with one of his five sons, who was pursuing a degree in creative music technology.
Adesoye Changed Careers in 2013
As reported by PEOPLE, Adesoye grew up in Nigeria. He was interested in electronics and radio as a child, and before moving to the United Kingdom, worked as an electronics technician in Greece.
"Beforehand, I was caring for electronic devices, and I was happy when I could get broken devices working again," he said. "In my work in healthcare, when patients get better, it gives me great joy and satisfaction."
Adesoye began his career change in 2013, when he started working as a healthcare assistant at Southmead Hospital in Bristol. He then began a nursing associate course before graduating over the summer.
After Nursing School, Adesoye May Pursue a Master's Degree
Before he secured a nursing job at Southmead, Adesoye worked in several departments at the hospital, including the emergency room, cardiology, orthopedics, and intensive care.
Jacqui Caskey and Caroline Bromwich, who led Adesoye's course, said he was "very dedicated" and proof that "hard work and perseverance can enable you to achieve your goal."
"Being a nurse apprentice is no mean feat — to study on a full-time program while working in your usual role is not easy," they added. "They all juggle this with busy lives, along with family and caring commitments."
Not resting on his laurels, Adesoye says he may consider pursuing a master's degree. He also offered some words of encouragement for those who think they might be too old for a degree.
"Don't listen to people who say you're too old for university," he said. "If I can do it, others can too. People are more brilliant than they think and they're stronger than they think.
"I didn't think I'd ever go to university, to be honest. But I have passion for learning. Even when I was small, I was so curious. When I got the chance to go to university, I didn't take it for granted. I followed it with my heart."
