Nam, 54, graduates from university at top, starts new chapter of life
Nam Gug-hyuean
By Kim Bo-eun
When pursuing one’s studies at a late age, completion itself is an achievement. However, some go beyond that and surpass their younger peers.
Nam Gug-hyuean, 54, graduated from Dongshin University at the top of his class, majoring in optometry and optical science, Feb. 22. Upon graduation, his GPA was 4.2 out of 4.5.
Nam showed exceptional dedication to his studies; not once was he tardy or absent for class, despite commuting to the school in Naju, South Jeolla Province, from Mokpo, another city in the same province.
“Although I have a relatively poor memory, I put in several times more effort into my studies, to break the prejudice people have of older students like myself (that they are prone to lag behind),” he said.
According to the school, having an older hard-working student in the department created a competitive academic atmosphere there. The department established a record of having a 100-percent pass rate for students taking the state optician examination, for three consecutive years.
Another part of Nam’s story that draws attention is that when he entered the university in 2009, he did so alongside his college-age son.
The two have attended classes in the same department together since then. Although that may have been expected to be awkward for Nam and his son, the senior Nam actively participated in school events, such as retreats and athletics competitions.
He not only got along with his younger classmates, but offered them advice about life.
“The past four years at Dongshin University were a precious memory,” said Nam. “I not only acquired knowledge, but also came to understand the thoughts and minds of young people, through spending time with them.”
The younger Nam returned to school last year after serving his mandatory military service.
Nam senior has passed the state examination to become an optician, and plans to open an optical shop.
He thanked his wife for encouraging him throughout his college years, and taking care of the household chores while he studied.
As a senior, he advised his juniors to value education.
“By all means, invest in furthering your education, convincing your parents, if necessary,” he said, adding, “It would be great if young students could attend college with a clearer sense of purpose.”