Watch CBS News

82-Year-Old Eagan Woman Completes Her College Degree

EAGAN, Minn. (WCCO) -- At 92, Andy Rooney completed his last commentary on "60 minutes." At 87, Robert Frost spoke at JFK's inauguration. At 82, Dolores Timlin of Eagan just completed her long-awaited degree online through Grand Canyon University.

She's a woman who no doubt proves age is only a number.

"I achieved a goal, and it doesn't matter that it took me so long," Timlin said.

Answering life's nagging questions has become almost a past time for Dolores. She dropped out of high school when she met a man eager to marry her at 17.

"He kept urging and urging, you know how guys are?" Timlin said.

Six kids later, that degree was still on her conscience. At 42, she went back to high school and graduated alongside her middle daughter.

"She had a group of friends that always ate together, and they accepted me as part of the group," Timlin said.

Timlin then spent 20 years working in the medical industry, and she never dreamed it'd be possible to complete her English literature degree online. The world she grew up in consisted of Smith typewriter.

Since Dolores has trouble walking, online seemed like a perfect fit. We should mention not only did she complete her degree, she made the dean's list.

"I told the kids I want it on my tombstone, because I achieved it and I deserve it," Timlin said.

As for what's next on Dolores' plate, she says next up is mastering the piano.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.