Elvia Martínez graduates from UNAM at age 71

Elvia Martínez Reséndiz has graduated with a degree in Psychology from the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) at the age of 71. Her academic journey began decades ago when she was accepted to the university in 1982 but was forced to pause her studies due to family economic circumstances and the need to support her parents and eight siblings.

Martínez’s return to academia was a multi-step process. In 2019, at age 63, she returned to the Colegio de Ciencias y Humanidades (CCH) Sur to complete her high school diploma, which had been left pending since 1982. After completing her preparatory studies, she enrolled in the Psychology program at the Facultad de Estudios Superiores (FES) Iztacala in 2012.

Throughout her studies, Martínez faced challenges including technological adaptation, such as learning to use digital tools and mobile devices for coursework, and overcoming the fear of public speaking. Despite these obstacles and long commutes, she maintained perfect attendance and received support from professors and fellow students.