Two Yuma students graduate college before starting high school

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - Two young students in the Yuma are reaching a major milestone years ahead of schedule - graduating college before even starting high school.

Lyra and Max Olea, who are just 11 and 13-years-old, are set to earn their associate degrees from Arizona Western College this May.

They say their journey was driven by curiosity and a desire to keep pushing forward.

"One thing that inspired me to graduate early, is I wanted to get ahead, because i’m not exactly sure what I want to be when i grow up. Then i can have more options," said Max Olea.

“My mom got her doctorate degree and I wanted to be like her and graduate early so then i could have more opportunities,” said Lyra Olea.

Both students say they’re excited to walk the stage this May, marking an incredible achievement and the start of their next chapter in higher education.

The siblings have been accepted to Northern Arizona University and are already beginning classes as they finish up at Arizona Western.