Most college graduates spend commencement thinking about what comes next.

For 68-year-old University of Nevada, Reno graduate Billy Gilroy, the answer is simple: another degree.

68-year-old graduate says he isn’t done learning – already chasing another degree (KRNV)

Gilroy recently earned his bachelor’s degree in anthropology after stepping away from higher education for nearly 40 years.

After high school, life took him in a different direction. He got married, raised a family and spent decades working as an auto mechanic before deciding to return to the classroom.

Going back to school wasn’t easy. Gilroy said he often found himself older than his classmates — and sometimes even older than his professors. Learning modern technology and adjusting to college life presented challenges, but he never lost his passion for learning.

His return to education began at Western Nevada College in Carson City in 2016. Gilroy credits a librarian, Dana Sturm, with encouraging him to continue his academic journey and eventually enroll at the University of Nevada, Reno.

“I made it to the stop sign in the parking lot, and the four letters stuck out and hit me in the eyes. I turned around, went back, and she helped me through it,” Gilroy said.

Now, with one bachelor’s degree complete, Gilroy is already looking ahead.

“I’m going to pursue a degree in English. I love creative writing. I’ve had some really great instructors here and at Western Nevada College, and I’d like to continue on. But my passion is anthropology. I’m just going to keep going. I’ve been doing it for 10 years. Why stop now?” Gilroy said.

Gilroy joked that he plans to keep collecting degrees until he runs out of room on his wall for the plaques. He also said the experience has reinforced his belief that education is priceless.

“You can’t put a price on education. This has been a lifetime experience for me. I commute from Carson, and the closer I get to campus, the more my excitement rises exponentially. I just can’t wait to get here,” he said.Comment with Bubbles

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For anyone considering a return to school, Gilroy’s advice is straightforward: it’s never too late to learn something new.