So, why do you even care?

[kansasgal]

Last Saturday I graduated from Kansas State with my degree in Social Work. This has been a really big deal for me, because I am 53 and I felt accomplished to finally get my degree.

As I was standing in line to go up and get the diploma cover, there was a man standing outside of the ropes (where relatives usually stand) and watched as my son hugged and kissed me and told me he was proud of me. Said man then walked up to me and said "You're kinda old to be a student".

I simply replied "Better late then never" instead of "What's it to you, Asshole" as my son was still standing there.

[Pixilated]

First of all, as someone who's 57 and back in school, let me just say and may you get your dream job, whatever it may be.

As for Idiot Guy,the first thing I thought of was Princess Leia's remark when she first sees Luke: "Aren't you a little short for a stormtrooper?" In your case, it might've been something like, "And you're kinda old to be that stupid."

However, your remark was much better suited to the occasion and the surroundings.

[bhskittykatt]

Congrats!

I've had classmates who were in their 80s. You're never too old to go to school! And while I can understand being curious to hear someone's story when they're outside of their 20's and graduating from college, there are more tactful ways to approach the subject.

[iradney]

The hell? What's it to do with him?? I'm nearly 33 and hoping to start a degree of my own as well.

By the way - CONGRATS!

[XCashier]

I remember seeing fellow students my grandparents' age during my college days (in my late teens-early 20s). I'd like to go back to college myself, and at 44, I doubt I'd be the oldest student on campus.

[Der Cute]

Old? Old, look at you dude, you're showing your wrinkles... ahem. Congrats, and screw him.

[Estil]

Go Wildcats! (in both of our cases) I can't believe it's already been 10 years since I got double BA's from Kentucky

[catcul]

You should have told him the truth. "It's not of your business, buddy!"

I'm going back to school at 38. I'm planning to turn my Associate's Degree in IT into a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Systems and Security.

[csquared]

I wonder what Allen Stewart or Leo Plass would have said to him?

Congrats and good luck!

[mathnerd]

Having been a college professor, I can tell you in no uncertain terms that you're still one of the youngins'. My oldest student was in her 90's and was over 100 by the time she finished. I've taught many parents and their children in the same classes. I've taught grandparents and great grandparents. Education is never a waste. Congrats!

[Food Lady]

Wow--congrats! And calling you old, which by the way you are not, was ruuuuude. Kudos to you to for coming up with a classy answer.

[MoonCat]

My answer:

"And you're kind of young to be senile."

[kansasgal]

Thank you all for all of the congratulations. I am currently actually using my degree, I did my internship at a homeless shelter and they asked me to stay on permanently to help the shelter clients.

I know I am not the oldest (I was in my college and program, but there were older people in the other colleges) and when people ask why I went back to school I tell them that learning never ends, and if you have the chance, grab it.

[pzychobitch]

Congratulations. I am very happy for you!

[FenigDurak]

Congrats! You were in good company. My cousin and his wife both graduated medical school that day! My mother received her MD from K-State as well! She was older than her classmates but I'm afraid I can't remember her response to the silly comments like that.
Anyway, congrats on the accomplishment and on the job!