Dorotea Levy de Szekely, at 74 years old, recently celebrated her graduation from Hunter College, embodying the notion that it’s never too late to pursue one’s dreams. A grandmother of three and a proud lifelong learner, she emphasizes her philosophy: “Don’t let age be your cage.” Her journey from a challenging childhood marred by a learning disability, which discouraged her from pursuing higher education, to graduating from college is a testament to her resilience and passion for learning.
Born in Argentina, Levy de Szekely’s path to higher education took a lengthy detour. A traumatic encounter with a first-grade teacher, who told her she would never complete high school, led her to avoid college for many years despite her deep desire for academic fulfillment. Reflecting on missed opportunities, she expressed sadness every time she passed a university, feeling the weight of unfulfilled potential. Yet, her perseverance ultimately brought her to Hunter College, where she felt welcomed and valued.
Her academic journey began in earnest in 2017, with her enrollment at the Borough of Manhattan Community College. There, she earned her associate’s degree in 2019, graduating as co-valedictorian with a perfect 4.0 GPA. This achievement propelled her to Hunter College, where she achieved an impressive 3.98 GPA while triple majoring in German Language and Literature, English (Creative Writing), and Studio Art. In a vibrant college atmosphere filled with younger peers, she fostered meaningful friendships, proving that age is merely a number when it comes to connection and camaraderie.
Levy de Szekely’s college experience was rich not only academically but also socially. She valued the relationships she formed with fellow students and professors, driven by her genuine curiosity about the lives and motivations of others. This empathetic approach allowed her to cultivate deep connections and engage with diverse perspectives, enhancing her educational journey. Her favorite subjects included creative writing and history, which ignited her passion for literature and exploration of philosophical themes sought in the works of authors like Franz Kafka and Stefan Zweig.
As she embarks on a self-styled “gap year,” Levy de Szekely chooses to immerse herself in literature and the arts rather than backpacking through Europe. Fluent in four languages, she embraces lifelong learning by planning to tutor in the German department at Hunter while preparing for a master’s degree in English at CUNY. Her artistic pursuits also include reimagining classic tales, such as a new narrative of “Little Red Riding Hood,” highlighting the strength of women.
Levy de Szekely’s journey serves as an inspiring reminder that the pursuit of knowledge has no expiration date. She ardently advocates for an open mind and curiosity as essential components for a fulfilling life at any age. With her father’s encouraging words still resonating with her — “The day I cannot learn something anymore, I will be dead” — she demonstrates that for her, life is a continuous journey of learning, growth, and celebration, showcasing that age truly does not define one’s capacity for achievement.
