There is an English saying, “It’s better late than never.” We will never know if we don’t try.

Take the story of Roberto Solis who, after a long pause, had decided to accomplish something he never did for long years – graduate.

The 63-year-old student defends thesis fusing fashion and journalism – and he did it; proving further that age is just a number.

63-year-old Student Finishes Journalism Degree

After decades of postponing his journalism degree, 63-year-old student Roberto Solis from the University of Santo Tomas (UST) successfully defended his thesis!

Solis demonstrated that age is no barrier to completing an unfinished degree. He began his studies at UST in the 1980s, but a job opportunity led him to pause his education.

“My whole intention of going back to school is to finish what I have left, unfinished business ko sa UST,” he told The Flame, the official student publication of the UST Faculty of Arts and Letters.

Fashion and Journalism During SONA

As an experienced fashion enthusiast and journalism student, he successfully combined his two passions when he defended his thesis, “Fashion Journalism: An Analysis of Stories on the SONA Outfits from the Aquino III to Marcos Jr. Administrations,” on December 7, 2024.

Fashion and Journalism at UST

As a freshman in the 1970s, Solis recalled experiencing a mix of emotions: pride as a Thomasian, intimidation as a newcomer from the province, and curiosity about the fast-paced life in Manila.

“The first two years were very intimidating,” Bobby recalled. “Professors just left after the lesson. We relied heavily on books, textbooks, and notebooks,” he said.

“For the phones, you had to put coins in the phone booths that were outside. You put 25 cents and dial.”

He also observed how the AB male uniform has changed over time, with the distinctive vertical lines on the barong symbolizing the thirteen academic programs offered by the Faculty.

Eager to explore Manila beyond the university, Solis connected with the city’s pulse by reading sports news and classified ads. It was in these pages that he discovered an opportunity that would change his path.

When he returned to his studies, adjusting to the modern learning environment proved challenging. However, with the support of his classmates and his own determination, he was able to adapt to the new system.

Congratulations!