The 17-Year-Old Trailblazing Her Way to a Teaching Degree by Age 19

At just 17 years old, Hannah Pearson is on track to make history. This young, ambitious student from Robeson County, North Carolina, is set to become a licensed teacher before her 19th birthday, a feat that reflects her dedication and passion for education. Already holding an associate of arts degree from Robeson Community College, Hannah is now a junior majoring in Elementary Education at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP).

Hannah’s academic journey began with an early graduation from Fairmont High School, where her mother, Miranda McNair, has been teaching for nearly three decades. Her love for learning and natural curiosity led her to participate in North Carolina’s Career and College Promise (CCP) Program as early as the 10th grade. This program allows high school students to earn college credits for free, giving Hannah a head start in her educational pursuits. Through the CCP Program, she accumulated an impressive 60 college credits, positioning her well ahead of her peers.

“I just love to learn new information and explore different things,” Hannah shared in an interview with WRAL. Her mother, Miranda, couldn’t be prouder, describing Hannah as self-driven and committed to lifelong learning. “Even into foreign languages,” Miranda noted. “She’ll learn Korean, Spanish, and Portuguese because she just loves to learn.”

Hannah’s determination extends beyond academics. Her accomplishments have not only inspired her family but also her community. Her father, Brian McNair, found renewed motivation through Hannah’s drive, leading him to return to school and complete his bachelor’s degree at UNCP. “I can’t tell her to go after something I haven’t achieved myself,” he said. “God has given her a platform to show other kids that this is achievable.”

Hannah’s achievements underscore the opportunities provided by programs like CCP, which allow motivated students to advance their education without the financial burden. “The CCP program was a game-changer for me,” she explained. “It prepared me for college and gave me confidence. Now, as I enter UNCP, I feel more at ease compared to someone just starting out in college.”

Her passion for teaching is rooted in her admiration for her mother’s dedication to education and a pivotal job-shadowing experience at Green Grove Elementary School, where she worked as a teacher’s assistant for kindergartners. “I loved that experience,” Hannah recalled. “I saw how devoted my mom was to helping kids, and I wanted to follow in her footsteps.”

With her sights set on teaching kindergarten, first grade, or fifth-grade math, Hannah’s journey is just beginning. Her message to fellow students in Robeson County is one of perseverance and dedication: “Never give up. Continue to chase your dreams. If you have a goal, set it and go for it because you can do anything you put your mind to.”

Hannah’s story is a testament to the power of early education initiatives and the impact of a supportive community. As she embarks on the next chapter of her academic career at UNCP, she remains grateful for the opportunities that have brought her this far. “Attending Robeson Community College and being part of the CCP program was a blessing,” she said. “It’s given me a head start in life, and I’m forever grateful.”

Hannah Pearson’s journey is an inspiring example of how passion, hard work, and support can pave the way for young people to achieve their dreams. As she continues her studies, her achievements will undoubtedly inspire many more students to believe in themselves and the power of education.

Promise Ayomide Adekola, a remarkable young woman from Nigeria, has become an inspirational figure in the world of academia. At just 20 years old, she has achieved what many consider exceptional: she gained university admission at 14, earned two Master’s degrees, and completed a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree. Her journey, marked by perseverance, determination, and an unwavering passion for knowledge, serves as a beacon of hope and motivation for aspiring students worldwide.

Born on April 1, 2003, in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria, Promise’s academic prowess was evident from an early age. She began her formal education at the age of two at Stella Maris Schools, Abuja, and transitioned to Glisten International Academy for her primary and secondary education. Her commitment to academic excellence was demonstrated when she was encouraged to sit for the common entrance examinations at the age of nine, which she passed with flying colors, advancing her into secondary school earlier than her peers. Her dedication to her studies did not go unnoticed, as she received a full tuition waiver for part of her secondary education due to her outstanding performance.

Promise’s academic journey took a significant leap when, at the age of 14, she gained admission to Cyprus International University (CIU) to study Pharmacy. Her acceptance was based on her impressive performance in the West African Examination Council (WAEC) exams, where she obtained the required five credits. This achievement not only underscored her intellectual capabilities but also her readiness to embark on a rigorous and demanding course of study far away from home. Read more about Promise Ayomide Adekola here.

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