Kingston University celebrated its oldest ever graduate earlier this month during a graduation ceremony at The Rose Theatre.
Dr David Marjot, 95, a Surrey-based psychiatrist, graduated with an MA in Modern European Philosophy.
Dr Marjot, who qualified as a doctor in 1952, was interested in applying philosophy to psychiatry.
He said: “I knew I was limited on time, so when I saw an advert for the course, I decided to apply.
“The staff and students at Kingston University were so accommodating, it has been a wonderful course.”
There was a huge standing ovation for Dr Marjot as he crossed the stage with his son and son-in-law on his graduation day.
Dr Marjot gave advice to those thinking of re-entering education after decades away.
He said: “It is a bit of a gamble, but the main thing is if you’re interested then go for it.
“It was hard work, my memory is not quite what it used to be but I was lucky to have world-class teachers.
“I think it is important to always keep challenging yourself even as you get older.”
After 65 years of marriage, Dr Marjot’s wife passed away some years before the COVID pandemic.
The MA course was important for him to keep his mind occupied.
Professor Stella Sandford said: “David came to Kingston having already had an illustrious career and brought a wealth of knowledge and experience into class discussions.
“David once told the class about his childhood experience of Empire Day 1938 and compared it to Remembrance Sunday 2022.
“He was able to connect all that up to what we were studying.”
At 95 Dr Marjot beat a record previously held by a 93-year-old graduate from 1994.
96-year-old Archie White is currently the UK’s oldest graduate, graduating from the University of Brighton in 2021.
Dr Marjot is now contemplating starting a part-time doctorate, which he would finish at the age of 102.
Featured image credit: Kingston University
