A Black high schooler is gaining recognition for her 72 college acceptances — and out of her many choices, she's committed to attending an HBCU.
Good Morning America reports that Ja'Leaha Thornton applied to over 90 institutions in the fall of 2021 and has received 72 yeses thus far. She's decided to attend Lousiana's Xavier University.
The Florida teen took to Facebook to announce her big decision.
"I am proud to say I will be attending the Xavier University of Louisiana historically Black, Catholic university in New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S," Thorton said in her Facebook post.
With her eyes set on a medical degree, Thorton noted that Xavier University graduates have one of the highest success rates in attending and completing medical school. She detailed the university's plans to create The Graduate School of Health and Sciences Medical School.
The soon-to-be high school graduate used Common Black College Application and the Common App, which made it easier to apply to many schools at the same time. Thorton spent only $20 applying to 90 colleges.
Thorton told GMA, "I know the process of applying could be kind of overwhelming to many, and instead of stressing myself out, I decided to make it a competition … and see how many I can actually get into." The 18-year-old continued, "I wanted to broaden my horizons and explore some different schools outside of my state."
Thorton will be the class valedictorian at Glades Central Community High School in Florida. She has plans to become a forensic psychiatrist with her degrees from Xavier University and medical school.
The teen told GMA her advice for those embarking on similar journeys.
"Shoot beyond the sky, because it's a world out there, and it has so much for us to explore, so don't limit ourselves," Thorton said. "Go beyond what's in front of you and don't take advantage of time. Use your resources and your opportunity."
Get the latest news 24/7 on The Black Information Network. Listen now on the iHeartRadio app or click HERE to tune in live.