95-year-old UK man earns a degree to keep himself active following the loss of his wife
Dr. Marjot is now contemplating signing up for a part-time doctorate, which he would finish at the age of 102
Dr David Marjot, who first trained as a doctor way back in 1952, has become the oldest person to ever graduate from Kingston University, breaking the university’s previous record set in 1994 by a 93-year-old graduate. Dr. Marjot received a standing ovation from his peers and the audience as he crossed the stage at the graduation ceremony, having gained a master’s degree in modern European philosophy.
Dr. Marjot, who is 95 years old, remarked that although the course was hard work, he was lucky to have world-class teachers, and the experience was very positive. He also stated that he believes it’s important to keep challenging oneself even as one gets older. After his wife’s death following 65 years of marriage, he took the course to keep his mind occupied and is now contemplating signing up for a part-time doctorate, which he would finish at the age of 102.
The retired psychiatrist was interested in understanding more about philosophy and decided to apply for the course that was local to him. He spoke highly of the staff and students, saying they were very accommodating to him, and the course was wonderful.
Dr. Marjot qualified as a doctor in 1952 and remarked that entering education after decades away was a bit of a gamble but encouraged others to go for it if they are interested.
Professor Stella Sandford, one of Dr. Marjot’s teachers at Kingston University, praised him for bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to class discussions. She recalled an amazing and moving contribution Dr. Marjot made to the class when he once compared his childhood experience of Empire Day 1938 to Remembrance Sunday 2022.
Dr. Marjot, who lives in Surrey, was joined by his son and son-in-law at the graduation ceremony at the Rose Theatre in Kingston.
Although Dr. Marjot is the oldest person to graduate from Kingston University, Archie White still holds the record for Britain’s oldest graduate, having graduated from the University of Brighton at the age of 96 in 2021.
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