99-Year-Old Woman Achieves Dream of Getting College Degree Before Age 100

Doreetha Daniels of Agua Dulce, California, inspired a lot of applause (and some happy tears) when she earned her degree from College of the Canyons in Santa Clarita, California on Friday, June 5th.

KTLA News reports that Daniels, who is 99 years old, had been taking courses at the community college since 2009. She was inspired by her grandchildren, who were pursuing master's degrees at the time.

She achieved success despite many setbacks. During her time in school, she suffered multiple strokes and lost her driver's license, reported her son. And college officials said she overcame her struggles with computer literacy by studying on campus and working with tutors.

She was described as "one of the most hard working and dedicated students" in a news release from the College of the Canyons.

Photo: KTLA

When at the podium on Friday's ceremony, she told the audience, "99, here I am." After the ceremony, she continued: "I accomplished what I wanted to do, and this is my dream come true."

Daniels also offered words of encouragement to others. “Don’t give up. Do it. Don’t let anybody discourage you. Say that, ‘I’m going to do it,’ and do it for yourself.”

Yes, Doreetha Daniels, yes!

Watch more of Doreetha in a KTLA video below:

Photo: KTLA

Michelle Denise Jackson is Senior Editor at For Harriet. You can follow her on Twitter @MichelleJigga or reach her via email at michelle@forharriet.com.

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