Just like other college students ready to graduate, Chante’l Owens is looking forward to holding her diploma in hand and tossing her cap high into the air, as she celebrates the end of challenging academic work and looks forward to the next step in her education and ultimately her career.
But Owens is not the typical graduate. She will be one of the youngest to receive her degree at Kent State University’s Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 13. At the age of 19, Owens will graduate with a bachelor's degree in public health.
"I am excited to graduate," she told Cleveland.com. "I love learning but am ready to start working and get a career."
Owens is among four 18-year-olds and 10 19-year-olds who will have received degrees since last summer.
She is interested in medicine and is considering medical school. Owens plans to continue her education in the fall.
Her story has generated a lot of media attention. Learn more about her unique academic journey: