70-year-old receives degree from Cal U
CALIFORNIA – Proud parents and grandparents filled the seats at Hamer Hall on Saturday to watch their children and grandchildren cross the stage to accept academic degrees during California University’s 2003 commencement ceremonies. But, it was Barbara Johnston’s children and grandchildren in those very same seats as their mother and grandmother earned her bachelor’s degree in natural science.
“I thought it couldn’t get better than watching my own sons and daughters cross the stage,’ said Johnston.
“They are all very proud and tickled that I am graduating, and I’m glad to give them something they are happy about.’
Graduating at age 70, Johnston sought the completion of her four-year degree in the fall of 2000.
“I read about the over-60 program for seniors, and I thought, ‘I wonder if I can still do that? I wonder if I can still learn?'” she said.
Cal U accepted most of Johnston’s credits from a two-year program she had attended at Grove City College after graduating high school in 1950.
The decades in between Johnston’s academic efforts were filled with support for her children, husband and sister, and a career as an X-ray technician.
After her retirement, her husband passed away. With all four children and three grandchildren out of state, Johnston found herself home alone.
Upon acceptance to Cal U, she started with only two courses per semester.
Johnston recalls one of her first classes, a logic course taught by assistant professor Gary Smith.
“I thought it would be simple, but it was quite difficult. Gary helped me tremendously and I kept working away at it.
“I was working on this class one night and finally, I got it. It felt so great,” she said.
The students at Cal U earned nothing but high praise from Johnston.
“I thought, at first, I might be ostracized a little or see kids whispering, but after they realized I was working for a degree just like they are, we got along great.’
Johnston is looking for a part-time job in an office setting within the field of environmental science.
“I would love to actually be in the field, but physically I just can’t do it. California gave me all the computer tools I need to work in an office. There, I can sit most of the day.’
Johnston said she supports the over-60 program.
“I have offered to give a talk at the senior center to encourage others to apply. It is a wonderful program. Your tuition is waived, and you pay for books and fees.
“My children helped me with a lot of those expenses. In fact, my children encouraged me all along the way.’
She said she is confident that some of her peers are curious about the program.
“If I can learn, anybody can. This program has made me quite a bit younger in thought and deed,’ she said.