Never too Old: Displaced Israeli Who Completed 12 Years of Education at Age 54

Shirin Cohen, evacuated from her home to a hotel in Jerusalem, enrolled in studies about a year ago and fulfilled an old dream of completing 12 years of education. | Upon receiving her certificate, she said: "With patience and perseverance, achievements are harvested."

Since October 7, Shirin Cohen, 54, has been evacuated from her home in Shlomi in northern Israel and has been staying at a hotel in Jerusalem. Shirin decided not to waste her time and to fulfill an old dream—completing 12 years of education. With the help of a special course organized by the Jerusalem Municipality, which lasted nearly a year, Shirin completed her studies and received her certificate today (Tuesday).

“There’s no such thing as an age limit”
Shirin shared the moment she decided to take the step despite the challenges: “While staying at the hotel, I applied to complete 12 years of education. I was skeptical about whether I would actually be able to finish my studies.” She also emphasized the warm support she received from the course staff: “I was met with love from the course instructors, and they welcomed me with open arms. This encouraged me to succeed and complete 12 years of education. Instilling the belief that we would pass the course and succeed in the exams was not something I took for granted.”

In conclusion, she highlighted the inspiration she hopes to provide for people of all ages: “I hope others see my success and realize that there’s no such thing as an age limit—one can always learn, and with patience and perseverance, achievements are harvested.”

Shirin Cohen | Photo: Jerusalem Municipality Spokesperson

The Mayor of Jerusalem, Moshe Leon, congratulated Shirin on completing her education, stating: “Our national victory in the war passes through inspiring acts like Shirin’s. Coming from such a difficult situation, and while not even being at home, Shirin’s success teaches a great lesson in willpower, resilience, and national pride.”

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Ra'anan
Ra'anan
19 days ago

BEAUTIFUL!!!

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