Leah Remini

American actress Leah Remini, 53, revealed that she has finally received an associate degree from New York University.

She shared a picture of her degree on X and Instagram, saying: “After three years of hard work, long nights, tears, and wanting to give up so many times, I have earned an associate’s degree from NYU. I’m now working on my bachelor’s degree.”

“The King of Queens” actress added: “Three years ago, I embarked on a terrifying journey: becoming a college student at the age of 50 after only having an 8th-grade education and spending 35 years in a totalitarian cult.”

She said that the fear of not being smart enough held her back. “Even though I had managed to leave Scientology, three decades of brainwashing still gripped my mind.” Remini thanked her family and said: “So many of you have gotten me through the most challenging times. I have read many of your comments and drawn inspiration from them.

“I couldn’t have done this without the support of my therapist, who provided the support and tools that prevented me from giving up early on.”

Remini said that she is happy to see many older women take a leap of faith and enter higher education.

“Whether a cult used to control your life, you have a full-time job as a stay-at-home parent, or full-time job(s) outside of the home, it is never too late to continue your education and pursue what you have always wanted to achieve yourself,” she said.

Friends and fans of the actress and activist shared heartfelt messages under her post.

@RoxanneHoge wrote: “So many years since we worked together and you’ve earned multiple degrees since then in real life courage.”

@LanaMWiggins1 wrote: “You earned something no one can ever take away from you. Congratulations.” @MailePRMedia wrote: “Good for you, Leah. It’s never too late.”

@JessicaTheGreen wrote: “You are a great example. You deserve all the best life has to offer. God bless you, Leah.”