At just 18 years old, Nadiya Blair has accomplished what many can only dream of. Graduating summa cum laude from the prestigious Howard University, debt-free, and with plans already in motion to lead a multi-million-dollar business, Blair’s story is one of determination, resilience, and visionary planning.
An Early Start to Academic Excellence
Nadiya Blair’s journey to academic stardom began in high school, where she participated in a dual credit program in partnership with San Jacinto College. This program allowed her to graduate high school with not only a diploma but also an associate’s degree. This unique head start enabled her to enter Howard University as a junior at just 16 years old, fast-tracking her path to success.
By 2021, Blair had graduated from Howard—a historically Black university (HBCU) known for its excellence—in just two years. Earning summa cum laude honors underscored her remarkable academic achievements, all while navigating the complexities of remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite her successes, Blair’s journey was not without difficulties. The pandemic forced her to complete her senior year virtually, a shift that brought emotional and logistical challenges. “That was extremely difficult, not having the resources and the support system that I normally have on campus,” she shared. Yet, Blair persevered, producing a 40-page thesis on a topic close to her heart: the systemic barriers faced by Black girls in education.
She credits her resilience to her family’s unwavering support. “For so many people, the pandemic brought losses—not just of loved ones but of dreams, goals, and milestones we’d been looking forward to for years. That was emotionally draining, but my family’s support helped me push through.”
Graduating Debt-Free
Blair’s financial strategy for graduating debt-free was as disciplined as her academic approach. While she received a tuition scholarship from Howard University, she also applied for numerous smaller scholarships to cover additional expenses. “Don’t underestimate small scholarships,” Blair advised. “Even $100, $300, or $500 scholarships add up. They’re often easier to get and make a big difference.” Her commitment to securing financial aid ensured she avoided the burden of student loans, a feat achieved by less than 40% of college graduates nationwide.
Next Steps: Business, Service, and Personal Growth
Following her graduation, Blair plans to take a year off to recharge before pursuing a master’s degree in public policy with a focus on nonprofit management. During this year, she aims to:
- Run her own business: Blair is managing a franchise for a quarter-billion-dollar company, a role she describes as “the coolest thing ever.”
- Pursue the Presidential Lifetime Service Award: Having already earned two President’s Volunteer Service Awards, Blair is now working toward completing 2,000 hours of community service.
- Focus on personal growth: From learning the guitar to improving her Spanish, Blair is using this time to cultivate her interests and well-being.
A Vision for the Future
Blair’s ultimate ambition is to establish a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing college readiness and professional development opportunities for marginalized youth, including those in foster care and the juvenile justice system. She envisions a world where every young person has access to the resources and support they need to succeed.
The Foundation of Her Success
Blair attributes much of her success to her parents and her faith. “My parents weren’t helicopter parents, but they were supportive and instilled in me a sense of responsibility. If I got a bad grade, that was on me. They helped me understand that my future depended on my actions,” she explained.
Her advice to students echoes her own experiences: “Stay focused, embrace challenges, and take advantage of every opportunity. Whether it’s applying for scholarships or participating in dual credit programs, small steps can lead to big achievements.”
A Shining Example
Nadiya Blair’s story is a testament to what’s possible with hard work, strategic planning, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. As she embarks on the next chapter of her journey, her achievements serve as an inspiration to young people everywhere. With her entrepreneurial drive, passion for service, and vision for a better future, Blair is well on her way to making an indelible mark on the world.
At just 18 years old, Deborah Idumu, a trailblazing young Nigerian, has already etched her name in the annals of academic excellence. A graduate of Babcock University in Ogun State, Nigeria, Deborah earned a first-class degree in Software Engineering with an impressive Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.71. As the best graduating student in her department, she has set a remarkable example for young people worldwide.
Deborah’s journey into the world of technology began in high school, where her interest in software engineering was ignited. Choosing the field over broader disciplines like computer science, she sought a specialized yet flexible program to explore various facets of technology. Her decision proved insightful, paving the way for her current expertise and achievements.
Deborah started primary school at the age of three, receiving multiple double promotions that saw her complete high school and enter university at just 14. While some doubted her abilities due to her age, she persevered, using such skepticism as motivation to excel.
She vividly recalls a challenging semester following her Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) internship. With no time to rest before diving into an intense two-month semester, she nearly broke under the pressure but ultimately triumphed, proving her resilience. Read more about Deborah Idumu here.
