The Challenges and Triumphs of Earning My Master’s Degree Later in Life
At 52 years old, I made a decision that many people would consider bold:—or maybe even crazy. I decided to go back to college to pursue a Master’s degree in Computer Science. It wasn’t on a whim. It was the culmination of a lifelong passion for technology, unfinished academic goals, and the desire to prove—to myself more than anyone else—that growth doesn’t stop at middle age.
Even more remarkable? I’m doing it at Harvard University.
The Decision to Return
My academic journey has taken many turns over the years. Like many others, I started college in my youth but was soon pulled into the working world, military service, family responsibilities, and life’s unexpected detours. I built a successful career in IT, education, and nonprofit event management. I taught classrooms, ran businesses, and wrote code. But something in me always knew I wasn’t finished.
In January of 2025, I enrolled in graduate-level courses through Harvard University’s Extension School, dipping my toe back into academic waters. The experience was both exhilarating and humbling. And now, in September, I’ll officially begin the Master of Science in Computer Science program.
Yes—Harvard. And yes—at 52 years old.
The Mental Shift
Going back to school in your 50s isn’t just about opening a textbook—it’s about shifting your entire mindset. When I was younger, college was a step on a path. Now, it’s a mission. And while many of my classmates are just beginning their adult lives, I bring with me decades of experience—something I’ve learned to see as a strength, not a liability.
But even with that perspective, imposter syndrome doesn’t disappear. Sitting in a Harvard lecture hall (virtually or otherwise), it’s easy to feel like you’re in over your head. But I remind myself: I earned my seat. I’m not here to prove I belong. I’m here to grow.
Time Management Is a Beast
Let’s be honest—52-year-olds don’t typically have free schedules. Between managing a nonprofit, running a race timing company, developing open-source software, and fulfilling family roles, my plate was already full. Now, I’ve added reading, programming assignments, group projects, and late-night debugging sessions.
Unlike a 22-year-old, I can’t just pull an all-nighter and bounce back. My time and energy are precious. So I’ve had to treat my academic work with the same level of discipline and structure I’ve given to my professional life. Study sessions get blocked like meetings. Projects are planned out like client deadlines. It’s the only way to stay afloat—and it works.
Keeping Up with Technology
Even with a background in IT, the pace of change in computer science is relentless. Languages I once knew have changed. Entire paradigms have shifted. At Harvard, we’re diving deep into algorithms, systems design, artificial intelligence, and cutting-edge topics that didn’t even exist when I first started programming.
There are moments when I feel like I’m learning a completely new language. But there are also moments where my real-world experience allows me to connect the dots in ways others can’t. I may not be the fastest typer in the room—but I’ve debugged systems under pressure, taught students how to code, and managed mission-critical infrastructure. That counts for something.
The Emotional Challenge
There’s also the emotional weight of being a nontraditional student. You wonder if people will take you seriously. You worry about keeping up. You think about the time that’s passed—and the time you still have.
But there’s also an incredible upside: clarity.
I’m not here because I have to be. I’m here because I chose to be. Every class I take is a step toward fulfilling a goal I set for myself. Every concept mastered, every assignment submitted—it’s all part of a dream that didn’t expire just because the calendar turned.
Why It’s All Worth It
Attending Harvard wasn’t just a bucket-list item—it was a bold leap toward personal reinvention. I’m combining years of lived experience with fresh academic rigor. I’m building tools and systems that will help real communities through my nonprofit. I’m modeling perseverance and curiosity for my son. And I’m proving to myself that it’s never too late to learn something new.
Starting the master’s program this fall is more than a new chapter—it’s a new volume. It’s the reward for decades of hard work, and the beginning of something extraordinary.
For Anyone Considering This Path
If you’ve ever thought about going back to school later in life—do it. Don’t let your age be a barrier. Your experience is not a handicap; it’s a superpower.
Yes, it’s hard. Yes, it’s humbling. But it’s also transformative. You’ll find yourself thinking in new ways, connecting old knowledge with new frameworks, and discovering parts of yourself you’d forgotten. And if you’re lucky, like me, you’ll get to do it at a place that challenges and inspires you every single day.
It’s never too late to grow. And in my case, it’s never too late to go to Harvard.
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TJ Tryon
Graduate Student, Harvard University Extension School
Founder, Midwest Event Services
Nonprofit Race Director | Developer | Educator
Age: 52 and just getting started
