‘University is a blast’ says 75-year-old fresher

Bob Larkin, a Winchester local and former police officer, recently began studying philosophy at the University of Winchester at the age of 75.

After graduating from Peter Symonds College earlier this year, his partner and “biggest cheerleader” encouraged him to further his education.

“The only way you can find people who want to talk about philosophy is to go to university,” he said.

After graduating from secondary school 60-years-ago, Mr Larkin worked as a lorry driver, bus driver and police officer.

“As a young man, I was expected to be like my father – I was expected to follow a particular path in life. Now you can be whatever you want to be!”

Mr Larkin hopes that his story may encourage other seniors to continue their education.

“It makes me feel young at heart,” he said.

“It makes me feel like I am part of a community, and I have been accepted and treated equally. My age doesn’t make me different from any other student. My age isn’t a talent. It is easier to be old.”

Mr Larkin told Winol that he hopes that during his studies he will show others that age does not define us, “it refines us.”