Harnett County teen accepted into 91 colleges, earns $3 million in scholarship offers

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) —  Mahogany Newkirk accepted her Associate in Arts degree from Central Carolina Community College. Next week, she’ll receive her high school diploma. 

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“It was like a surreal moment. I was proud of myself,” Newkirk said of her accomplishments. 

She is enrolled at Harnett County Early College, where she earned high school and college course credits simultaneously. Newkirk put a lot of work into her academics over the last four years, missing out on parties and other social gatherings.

“Ultimately, the things that are going to help me go far in life and longevity are not partying. It’s education, you know, sacrifices. This is life. And this is what life is about,” said Newkirk.

Those sacrifices paid off with Newkirk’s 4.0 GPA, gaining her acceptance into 91 colleges and universities. She was also offered $3 million in scholarships.

“I’m very faithful. I have my faith in God. When the letters kept coming, I didn’t really expect for it to be that many,” Newkirk said. 

Newkirk says she’s always been a good student. Her hard work earned her acceptance into several honor societies, including Phi Theta Kappa, National Honor Society, National Beta Club, National Society of Leadership and Success, and Golden Key International Honour Society.

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“[If] you stay passionate and you do what’s right, it’s not far-fetched. It’s not impossible. It’s not unattainable. I’m proof of that,” Newkirk said. 

Newkirk was accepted into her top college choices. She’s chosen to attend the Savannah College of Art and Design to major in graphic design and minor in branding and advertising.

When she’s not studying, Newkirk enjoys practicing piano and bass guitar — and even playing video games. She knows, however, that keeping her focus on education will get her ahead.

“I know what I want in life, and as long as you’re determined, you can do it,” said Newkirk.

With her determination, there’s no doubt her accomplishments will continue to pile up. Mahogany credits her parents with helping instill important values in her, like faith and hard work.

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