76-year-old student embraces military and veteran opportunity program to earn degree

(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY — NOVEMBER 12, 2024) Above all things, Barbara Fitzpatrick is motivated by curiosity and what she calls an insatiable appetite to learn new things. Now, at 76 years old, Fitzpatrick is earning her degree at Empire State University at the same time as her college-aged grandchildren.  

Fitzpatrick chose SUNY Empire because of the university’s flexibility and ability to accommodate learners of all ages outside of a traditional classroom setting. She took advantage of the military and veteran opportunity program as a military spouse of a disabled veteran.  

“A dean I once worked for believed in lifelong learning, which I took to heart,” Fitzpatrick said. “I was really looking for a university. This seemed like a perfect fit. The choice of degrees available is staggering to me, I want them all.”  

Fitzpatrick said the resources offered by Empire State University, including a mentor and summer institute, gave her the support she needed to continue her education after being away from academia for some time and now, needing to adjust to a virtual learning environment. 

“The opportunity programs’ summer institute was intensive and necessary for those like me,” Fitzpatrick said. “I learned how to live chat, to share, to listen and to be heard. Hearing and sharing with other students made me feel connected to a class, I hope to stay connected to them.”  

Outside of academia, Fitzpatrick has dedicated her life to community organizations, supporting her husband and country in the military community, and holding jobs in different industries from real estate, sales, insurance, and managing her own business. She is a member of the Islip Arts Council and enjoys painting and working with beach glass and crafts. She has also received certificates of appreciation by the Suffolk County Legislature, The News of Suffolk County newspaper, The Town of Islip for Women’s History Month, and the Greater Sayville Chamber of Commerce.  

As she works to earn her degree now, she hopes to grow closer to her grandchildren who are also working to earn their degrees at the same time.  

“This is bonding in a different way,” Fitzpatrick said. “We have baked together, gone to different events, they helped me at the park selling raffle tickets, I went to their games and concerts. Now, I get to talk about ordering books, how to answer chats, and when to do homework. Most of all, I loved telling Molly, a sophomore, that I would transfer next year and be her roommate. Oh my, that was fun.”