82-Year-Old James O’Reilly Celebrates Graduation from DCU

An inspiring story emerged from Dublin City University (DCU) as 82-year-old James O’Reilly graduated with a BA in English and History. His achievement serves as a powerful reminder that the pursuit of education knows no age limit. O’Reilly, who has become one of the oldest graduates from the university, stepped onto the stage of the Helix during the October 2023 graduation ceremonies, capturing the hearts of many.

As he prepared for the ceremony, James expressed his nerves in a post shared by the university on Instagram. He humorously remarked, “You know, I’m old enough to have more sense!” This candid moment highlighted his journey back to education, one that was motivated by personal tragedy and a desire to reignite his passion for learning.

Following the death of his wife seven years ago, O’Reilly found himself struggling with depression. His sons encouraged him to pursue something that would engage his mind and fill his time. This encouragement led him to enroll in the BA program at DCU, a decision that ultimately resulted in him achieving a 2.1 grade in his studies.

James has long held an interest in literature and history, aspirations he had previously set aside. Earlier in his life, he earned a Master’s in Information Studies, but this new degree holds a special significance. “This degree means a lot to me,” he stated, reflecting on his lifelong dream of studying the arts.

Looking towards the future, James remains open to possibilities. While some of his tutors have suggested pursuing a PhD, he has decided to take a year to reflect on his next steps. “Certainly not going to have a career!” he joked, emphasizing his enjoyment of the learning process rather than career ambitions.

Since sharing his graduation news, O’Reilly has received an outpouring of support online. Comments such as “This is beautiful” and “Fabulous – congratulations James!” from fellow users illustrate the impact of his story.

With over 4,600 graduates participating in the ceremonies at DCU, James O’Reilly’s journey stands out as a testament to resilience and the enduring value of education. His heartfelt achievement serves as an inspiration, encouraging others to pursue their dreams regardless of age.