Dr. Nick Axten, aged 76, has finally achieved what he started more than five decades ago – his Doctor of Philosophy degree.
According to a Publication by the University of Bristol, he was recently conferred the much-awaited degree in a ceremony that he celebrated with his wife and granddaughter.
What makes his story even more inspiring is that he pursued his dream at an age where many people have long retired.
The Journey dates back to 1970 when he was awarded a prestigious Fulbright scholarship for his PhD in mathematical sociology at the University of Pittsburgh. However, after five years of studies, he returned to the UK without finishing his doctoral studies. Over the next fifty years, Dr. Axten had a varied career and created a school teaching program called ‘Oxford Primary Science.’
But Dr. Axten never lost sight of his dream of completing his PhD, and in 2016 he returned to university life to study for a Master of Arts degree in Philosophy at the University of Bristol. After completing his MA, Dr. Axten went on to study for a PhD in Philosophy at the same university, finishing the degree at the age of 75 in 2022.
During his long and varied career, Dr. Axten lived all over the UK, was father to two children and now has four grandchildren.
Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Axten expressed how he found it challenging to finish his PhD back in the 1970s. But his passion for learning and research carried him on to the finish line.
“Some problems are so great it takes the best part of a lifetime to get your head around them. They need a long hard think. This one has taken me 50 years,” he said.
Dr. Axten’s research for his doctoral thesis was based on the ideas he was working on in America more than five decades ago. It is a new theory for understanding human behavior based on the values each person holds. Dr. Axten believes that his research has the potential to change our view of behavioral psychology.
Dr. Axten’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, dedication, and resilience. Despite the challenges that come with the passing of time, he persisted in achieving his dream, proving that it is never too late to pursue your aspirations. Age should not be a barrier to education, personal growth, and self-discovery. His story is an inspiration to all those who may have given up on their aspirations due to various reasons. Dr. Axten shows us that it is never too late to start or restart our journey towards achieving our dreams.
