Abigail Brand, of Gilbertsville, has proven that age is but a number after graduating from Montgomery County Community College at just fifteen and delivered the commencement speech, writes Matteo Iadonisi for 6abc.

“I was actually 12 when I took my first class,” said Brand.

She emphasized that a college degree is within reach for others of her age as well.

“I know a lot of people, a lot of my friends, who would be able to do this, definitely,” she said. “And some people don’t really realize that it’s an option. There are resources to help you succeed and you can do that.”

Another student defying the age barriers is Annamarie Parker, who was among the eldest graduates. After deciding to go back to school, the 57-year-old had to overcome incredible obstacles to arrive at the finish line.

“Because of my visual impairment, accommodations, especially when it came to math, was very challenging,” said Parker.

She was ready to quit school after her mother died less than three weeks after her enrollment in 2011. However the teachers and assistive technology at MCCC were the catalysts she needed to complete her ten-year journey towards obtaining her degree.

Read more about Abigail Brand and the MCCC graduates at 6abc.