90-year-old graduates after dropping out in 1951

A 90-year-old great grandmother, Joyce DeFauw, has graduated from the Northern Illinois University on Sunday.

DeFauw received her Bachelor’s degree in General Studies.

According to ABC Eyewitness News, she started college in 1951 but dropped out to get married and have children.

The grandmother of 17 and great-grandmother of 24 said it was her family who encouraged her to return.

“Don’t give up. Even if you do quit, go back,” DeFauw said. “Just hang in there. Keep learning. Keep giving thanks. It’s there for you. Just go for it.”