Twin sisters Tia Criss and Jasmin Criss are set to graduate on the high of their class at Cheyney College of Pennsylvania, incomes the titles of valedictorian and salutatorian (respectively) in what they describe as a “surreal” achievement, in response to CBS Information.
The sisters, who’re simply minutes aside in age, say they weren’t aiming for the honors however have been stunned after they discovered they ranked on the very high of their class. “We weren’t making an attempt to realize valedictorian or salutatorian; it simply occurred that means,” Tia stated.
Each graduates beforehand attended Philadelphia Excessive College for Women and credit score their mother and father for instilling self-discipline and a robust work ethic. Their journey has been marked by constant tutorial efficiency, mutual encouragement, and what they describe as “pleasant competitors.”
College officers have praised the twins’ accomplishment as a mirrored image of dedication and perseverance. Affiliate Dean of College students Lakiyah Chambers described their success for instance of laborious work paying off.
Past teachers, the sisters share pursuits in actions like tennis and badminton, however their profession targets differ. Tia plans to pursue a future within the insurance coverage trade, drawn to its analytical and danger evaluation facets. Jasmin, alternatively, hopes to construct a profession in advertising or trend, leaning into her inventive strengths.
Their achievement comes throughout an emotional time for the household. Their father, Lynn Criss III, handed away in March. The sisters say his affect and assist stay a driving drive behind their success, and so they imagine he could be pleased with their accomplishments.
Following commencement on Could 9, each sisters will proceed their training at West Chester College, the place they plan to start an MBA program within the fall.
Their story stands out not only for tutorial excellence, however for the stability of ambition and assist they’ve proven one another alongside the best way, proving that success doesn’t have to return on the expense of partnership.
