Thanks to MET, Father and Daughter Graduate Side-by-Side

Rory Kallfelz’s graduation from Boston University’s Metropolitan College (MET) this past May was a unique experience—and not just because he finished his college career during a pandemic. Kallfelz (MET’21), was able to graduate alongside his daughter, Alexandra Kallfelz (COM’21), she with a degree in journalism, and he with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics.

The elder Kallfelz’s BU education began in 1981, but was interrupted by a budding career in healthcare management. In 1989, Kallfelz resumed his studies with evening classes at MET, until burgeoning family responsibilities once again put his higher education on the backburner.

“I didn’t have enough time to think about school too,” Kallfelz recently told BU Today of the time. “I actually hadn’t expected to take such a long break.”

Inspired by his daughter, Alexandra (or “Ally,”), who was nearly through her own studies, and their family full of Terriers, Kallfelz ultimately decided it was time to complete his degree last March.

“The thought of graduating with Ally has kept me motivated to stay the course, put in the effort, and move forward,” Rory says. “I shot an email off to MET Student Services . . . asking to speak to someone about what it might take to finish my undergrad degree.”

Erik Linnane, MET Student Services director, helped Kallfelz identify the courses needed to finish his bachelor’s degree. “I can’t thank him enough for taking my call and caring enough about me as an individual to assist,” he says.

Due to the complex circumstances of this year, most families were prohibited from attending commencement ceremonies. But as a pair of students, the two Kallfelzes were able to be together as they realized their academic ambitions.

“There was something about my graduation potentially lining up with Ally’s that seemed special,” Kallfelz says.

On this, his younger Kallfelz classmate agrees.

“I’m so proud of him for deciding to finish his degree. He’s shown me that it’s never too late for anything, including going back to school,” Ally says.