Man Gets PhD in Mathematics at Age 85

At the age of 85, Indian-American engineer Ramesh Sharma has just received his doctorate from the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) as part of the school 's graduation ceremony.

In the momentous moment, witnessed by his wife of 51 years and his family, Sharma fulfilled the promise he made when he immigrated to the US from India in 1976 - that he would make his second homeland proud of him, according to The American Bazaar.

“Since we were young, we were taught by our teachers and parents to do something useful for humanity or to set an example for future generations. I took that teaching to heart, so when I retired, I went back to school, first to complete my master’s in 2014 and now my doctorate. I took it one subject at a time, but I did it. I am so happy that I was able to keep the promise I made when I started school,” said Dr. Sharma.

Mr. Ramesh Sharma received his doctorate at the age of 85. Photo: The American Bazaar

Born in Narowal, Pakistan and raised in Ludhiana, India, Sharma received a degree in mechanical engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology in 1967. After serving for several years in the Indian Navy, he immigrated to the United States in 1976, working in Texas, Michigan, and Connecticut before settling in Fort Worth in 1986.

“I worked at several nuclear power plants as a load analysis engineer,” Shaman said. “I did well in everything I did and my biggest wish was for my son and daughter to get the best education possible. They did. When they were settled and I retired, my next goal was to further my own education.”

In 2007, he returned to the University of Texas at Arlington, beginning a master's program in mechanical engineering.

“After completing my master’s program, I could have chosen to pursue a PhD in mechanical engineering, but I decided to further my knowledge of mathematics, partly because I was very impressed with Hristo Kojouharov and Benito Chen – two professors who helped me to keep learning and overcome discouragement. In addition, my advisor, Tuncay Atkosun, with a background in fluid mechanics and mathematics, was a very helpful teacher in this journey,” Dr. Shaman shared.

“Ramesh Sharman is an inspiration to all of us at UT Arlington for his desire and commitment to continuing to learn, even in retirement,” said Dr. Aktosun, Sharma’s program advisor and a professor of mathematics at UTA. “His unique work and life experiences bring insights to the research of those of us who have had the opportunity to work with him.”

Professor Jianzhong Su, head of the Department of Mathematics at UTA, who presented Sharman with his cap at the graduation ceremony, added: “We are very proud of Ramesh for his hard work and dedication. We are delighted to celebrate his success in obtaining his PhD in mathematics.”

Sharma shared that he is very grateful to his wife and family for always supporting him throughout his pursuit of his academic dreams.

“I am so grateful to UT Arlington for helping me fulfill a commitment I made as a young man. Now, if even one person can benefit from the research or the promise has come true, my goal is complete,” he said.

Sharma plans to continue his academic journey by mentoring other students. He is currently assisting a student with research. “It’s great to be able to give back to the community,” he said.

Source: https://giadinh.suckhoedoisong.vn/cu-ong-lay-bang-tien-si-toan-hoc-o-tuoi-85-172241215201431867.htm