Sheen wings it as student at Irish college

[MADem]

DUBLIN, Ireland -- Martin Sheen, star of TV's ''The West Wing'' and numerous Hollywood films, began his new career Friday -- as a college student.

The actor registered at National University Galway in western Ireland, where he plans to study philosophy, English literature and oceanography as part of a bachelor of arts degree.

Sheen, who previously said he didn't want to be a distraction for the 15,000 students at the university, declined to comment and said he wanted his arrival to be as private as possible.

University President Iognaid O Muircheartaigh, who greeted Sheen as he signed up for his courses, said he expected students to give the 66-year-old actor enough space to enjoy his new life of learning......... http://www.suntimes.com/output/people/cst-ftr-sheen02.html

It's NEVER too late!!!

[CollegeDUer]

1. The Sheen family are fighters

They may get blasted as "liberal hollywood" or whatever nonsense, but they've long been an educated and active family.

[bluestateguy]

2. Older students are always the best students

and I think the other students benefit from having them around.

[CBHagman]

3. I've enjoyed this story.

First, it's heartening to see someone taking this novel approach to the next stage of his life after a TV gig ends. Secondly, I love that he picked Ireland (Sheen's mother was an Irish immigrant). Third, it's inspirational to all of us who believe in second acts and new beginnings.

[silverweb]

4. That is *so* cool.

Going to college at 66 because he'd never been. I hope Mr. Sheen has a wonderful, invigorating college experience. It's great that he's undertaking this now and my admiration for him has grown.

:thumbsup:

[sarge43]

5. That man is a class act

And what a wide range of interests.:thumbsup:

[WilliamPitt]

6. You have to wonder

The man did seven seasons as Bartlet, a President smarter, more erudite and more well-read than any twelve other characters around him.

Perhaps the character inspired the actor to live up to the role. If so, I cannot imagine a more fitting coda for so fine a show.

:toast:

[AspenRose]

7. Oh that's way cool

Now I don't feel so bad I had to put my master's degree program on hold at 38. Never say never.

[sarge43]

10. I didn't go to college until I was 41

and I had a ball. Sheen probably will, too.

[annabanana]

8. It sure as hell would be an improvement over the

current pResident:



Martin Sheen for President

[City Lights]

9. Cool.

Good for him.