Tennessee teen Emory Pruitt makes history as one of Clark Atlanta University’s youngest students ever, according to a university press release.
The now 16-years-old joined the class of 2020 this fall, having graduated high school early with a 3.7 GPA.
In a statement, CAU officials talking about the fest said Pruitt’s path to college was not easy.
“At her hometown high school, she was mocked for being a young Black woman who dared to dream big,” a CAU spokesperson wrote, according to GA Followers. “But the racism and adversity, along with strong family support, only strengthened Pruitt’s resolve.”
Pruitt was eventually enrolled into online classes at Penn Foster High School by her mother, Karen in order to avoid the racism.
“I know that this was the best choice to protect her and her feelings; no one should have to defend the color of their skin,” Karen said.
“It actually was the dedication and my family that pushed me each day,” said Pruitt, now 16. “I should thank the people that doubted me; that just made me work even harder.”
Even more special for Pruitt is the fact that her brother, Elijah was also accepted to attend Clark Atlanta this year.
Both were raised by single mother, Karen Pruitt, who is ecstatic about her daughter being able to get accepted into CAU.
“Words would not be able to describe how thrilled and excited she was to have come across a dream come true,” said Karen Pruitt.
