Donzella Washington, 80, graduated from Alabama A&M University on Dec.6 with a bachelor's degree in social work. She made history as the oldest graduate of Alabama A&M in their 144-year history.
In 2010, her mother died, followed by her sister and husband's death, which all happened in three years. Washington said that her motivation (动力)behind going back to school was her husband, Jeff, who was one of her biggest supporters.
“My father supported everything she did, especially returning to school," her daughter, Kimberly Washington, said. “Although my father did not have a traditional college education, he knew the value of gaining one.”
Before moving to Alabama, with her daughter in 2012, Washington and her husband lived on a farm in California, where they fostered (收养)about 30 children - including a group of six siblings in the 1970's so that they could stay together.
“I have seen her work tirelessly to achieve this dream and to finally be there to see her was a very proud moment. The most challenging part has been comforting her when she was missing my father most... those moments when she cries and all I can do is hold her and love on her. Kimberly continued.
Another one of the challenges Washington overcame was a stuttering (结巴)problem growing up. So she began taking speech classes. Then, years later, she picked up social work and business classes one — by — one at Lawson State Community College before transferring to Alabama A&M University.
Now, Washington said she's not slowing down any time soon. She said that she's even considering going back to school to get her master's degree. In the meantime, she hopes to provide volunteer service wherever necessary.
4. Why did Donzella Washington go back to school?
A.To make a history. |
B.To find a better job. |
C.To set an example to her daughter. |
D.To meet her husband's wish. |
5. What difficulty did Donzella Washington have to overcome?
A.The sadness over losing her loved ones. |
B.Her weakened memory. |
C.Challenge of taking speech classes. |
D.Slowing down in walking. |
6. Which words can best describe Donzella Washington?
A.Determined and hardworking. | B.Easy-going and sharp. |
C.Far-seeing and odd. | D.Warm-hearted and polite. |
7. Which may be the best title for the text?
A.Every road leads to Rome. |
B.It's never too late to achieve dreams. |
C.Doing is better than saying. |
D.A good beginning makes a good ending. |