When Andrea “Onnie” Hull, 62, visits the dorms at Cal State Long Beach (CSULB) this fall, she won’t be bringing supplies or care packages to her granddaughter— freshman Alexis Walters— but more likely her own psychology textbooks, notepads and other study materials.
On Monday, Aug. 31, Hull and 18-year-old Walters, who recently graduated from Mira Costa High School in Manhattan Beach, became the first grandmother and granddaughter in CSULB history to start taking classes at the same time. As the university celebrates its 60th anniversary, the pair provides the diverse campus a metaphoric reflection of its own scholarly birth and evolution over the past six decades.
Though they will both major in psychology, the pair will not likely share too many courses together since Hull has transferred to CSULB as a junior from Santa Monica College and Walters is a first-time freshman. However, Hull does believe there could be some situations when their paths will not only cross, but their family connection could prove beneficial.
“We are both on the path toward a bachelor’s in psychology. In a perfect world she would be receiving her bachelor’s the same year I would attain my master’s degree. If that’s in the cards, then we could be graduating together,” said Hull, who lives in the same city as Walters, Hermosa Beach. “However, the chances of us having classes together are probably pretty slim because she is a freshman and I am a junior. But I’m sure there will be times that we can study together!if she lets me hang out in her dorm.”
Hull graduated from William Cullen Bryant High School in Queens, New York, in 1965. She began going to college in 1997 but had to soon leave due to health issues. In 2003 she re-launched her college career, graduating last year with her associate’s degree.
“Alexis’ decision to attend CSULB was her own and I couldn’t be happier. I am so proud of her, and myself,” said Hull. “I have been blessed to have her in my life since she was a baby, never living more than a block away from me. She is my heart and my star and I’m thrilled that we can share this experience.”
