INDIANAPOLIS — A longtime dream of graduating from college early will soon be a reality for two high school seniors in northern Indiana. It's an accomplishment very few have been able to achieve.
Fifteen-year-old Khaya Njumpe and 17-year-old Abram Lewis will finish high school this year with bachelor's degrees already in hand. Two years ago, the two received their associate degrees.
“Since I was very little, I've always wanted to graduate early,” Njumpe said. "At first, it was quite shocking. I didn't believe I was going to get my bachelor's degree at such a young age."
Njumpe and Lewis became fast friends while attending 21st Century Charter School in Gary. They both applied to a program through Geo Academies that allowed them to earn college credits at the same time.
"When I realized I really wanted to get a head start in my career, I put my mind to it, and here I am," Lewis said.
Njumpe earned credits from Ivy Tech before taking classes at Indiana University. Lewis also started at Ivy Tech, later transferring to Purdue Northwest.
They were recognized Thursday, Jan. 11 by the State of Indiana at an MLK Celebration for their dedication to education.
The teens said they are driven by their desire to learn and get ahead. They hope their story encourages others to do the same.
"Be confident in what you want to do in the future,” Njumpe said. “Set your goals now and execute."
“Push your limits,” Lewis said. “Figure out what can you do and how do you make it like you want to do it."
Njumpe and Lewis will have their bachelor's degrees in May and both plan to go into the medical field.