Aug 22, 2016 11:49 AM EDT By Jane Reed, UniversityHerald Reporter

Do you imagine Reba McEntire as an elementary school teacher? Apparently, the legendary country singer holds a degree in elementary education. Including a minor in music, McEntire graduated from the Southeastern Oklahoma State.

Currently at 61 years of age, she holds a degree that surprises people. Does she plan on pursuing a career in teaching? According to Sioux City Journal, she almost became a teacher.

Born in 1955, this McAlester, Oklahoma native was taught how to sing at an early age by her mother. Reba also taught herself how to play the guitar. She learned songs and harmonies from her mother. Later on, she and her siblings formed a vocal group called the "Singing McEntires."

But her mother, Jacqueline, always wanted to be a teacher. In fact, she became a former teacher later on. Maybe her desire to become one spilled over to Reba. In 1974, she attended the Southeastern Oklahoma State University to become an elementary school teacher. She graduated in 1976. In between studying, she also continued to sing. In college, Reba McEntire was a member of a campus singing group called the Chorvettes.

She made a big time performance when she was hired to sing the national anthem at the National Rodeo in Oklahoma City. Country singer Red Steagall saw her potential and helped her launch her music career.

Now, Reba McEntire is a fan favorite when it comes to country music. Although her original plan was to become a teacher, country music may not be the same today if it was not for her. She made her mark in country music and continues to do so. But many say that it is not too late to get back to teaching. She may even teach music to kids. What do you think?

Did you know that Reba McEntire was enlisted by Titanic director James Cameron to play the "Unsinkable" Molly Brown in the 1997 film? She did not do it because of conflicts in her tour schedule.

Want to listen to some McEntire tunes? Check out one of her hit music videos below:

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