MBA at 79? Usha Ray Is Set To Prove That Dreams Have No Expiry Date

Usha Ray, 79, is set to become the world's oldest person to earn an MBA when she completes her degree. She is currently pursuing an MBA specialising in hospital and healthcare management at Dr D Y Patil Vidyapeeth Centre for Online Learning in Pune. While balancing her studies with her regular job at Lovee Shubh Hospital in Lucknow in the accounts and administration department, she calls herself a warrior.

Dr Peter Fung, 76, who graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, is the current holder of this record.

For Ray, Age Is Just A Number

“An empty mind is the devil’s workshop. There was no point in just sitting around. I would be free in the evening after my job, and I thought I was wasting my mind. I wanted to do something for myself,” she said, in an interview with Indian Express.

Thus, after teaching and travelling the world, Ray decided to return to being a student, proving that it is never too late to pursue your dreams.

“Not having an MBA used to give me an inferiority complex at work. I didn’t feel like I was on the same level as those who held an MBA. However, I eventually realised that nothing was stopping me from achieving that big dream. Now, once I earn my degree, I’ll be unstoppable," she believes.

Overcoming Challenges

The Online MBA course at Dr D Y Patil Vidyapeeth Centre for Online Learning has played a vital role in Ray’s journey. Residing in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, she manages her regular job and also attends online classes regularly and diligently.

“I didn’t know how to use a laptop, but I bought one anyway. I practised, and I am still learning, but I wasn’t going to let that hold up my classes. I owe a lot to the university and its staff, who supported me throughout the whole process. It is so accessible and user-friendly that I can navigate it without fear,” said Ray. Despite the various technological struggles faced by the people of her age, she has been able to thrive through her dedication. 

Usha Ray has been living alone since her husband passed away in 2010, while her son resides outside of Lucknow.

The University's Support 

Ray shares that the University’s staff has always been helpful and supportive for her to achieve this milestone. 

“When we realised Usha Ray’s extraordinary journey could set a world record, we knew it deserved recognition. Our institution believes in lifelong education, and we’ve supported her by providing resources, encouragement, and a strong academic environment,” added Dr Farooqi (Faculty).

However, Ray’s journey has not always been an easy path. While working as a professor, in 2003, she was diagnosed with stage four cancer but she battled it and survived. Then again, in 2020, the disease returned, but she fought it once more and emerged stronger than ever.

Despite her impressive accomplishments, Ray doesn't show any signs of slowing down. Her goal is to reach new heights, and her next aim is to pursue a PhD. “I hope to achieve that. I don’t know what the future holds, but I am excited about possibly accomplishing anything I set my mind to," she says.