Age is not a problem, From 43 to 55: 61-year-old passes 3 board exams

 

At an age when many people begin slowing down and looking back on their achievements, Raul Despojo continues to prove that dreams have no age limit. Between the ages of 43 and 55, he successfully passed three different board examinations, showing that it is never too late to learn, grow, and chase new goals.

Now 61 years old and living in Marikina City, Despojo shared his inspiring journey with The Summit Express. Born in Bacolod City, he learned early in life the importance of perseverance despite various challenges.

Despojo first graduated in 1984 from University of St. La Salle with a Bachelor of Science in Commerce major in Accounting, a course he described as the most practical choice during that time.

Although he initially followed a practical career path, he quietly held on to his dream of becoming a nurse. Financial difficulties prevented him from pursuing it earlier, but years later, after establishing a career and raising a family, he decided to return to school and finally follow his passion.

Leaving behind a stable corporate job after 20 years was not easy, but Despojo took the risk and pursued nursing. “Resigning from my job after 20 years to study nursing may seem like a midlife crisis thing,” he shared, “but I decided to finish it eventually, and it felt great.”

In June 2007, at the age of 43, he successfully passed the Nursing Licensure Examination. A year later, at 44, he added another achievement by passing the Real Estate Brokers Licensure Examination in October 2008.

More than a decade later, when many people would already be enjoying retirement, Despojo challenged himself once again. In 2019, at 55 years old, he passed the Licensure Examination for Teachers, completing the rare accomplishment of earning professional licenses in healthcare, business, and education.

He admitted that age became one of the biggest challenges during review classes, especially while studying alongside much younger examinees. Still, he remained determined and confident throughout the journey.

Behind every success was a deeper motivation fueled by faith and family. While continuing his studies, Despojo also raised three daughters and supported his loved ones through careful time management and constant prayers.

Today, he enjoys retirement while continuing to work as a freelance real estate broker and spending quality time with his family and grandchildren.

For Despojo, his journey is more than a collection of achievements—it is a reminder that learning should never stop. His story powerfully shows that with determination, faith, and perseverance, no dream is ever too late to pursue.