Teenager earns doctoral degree at 17 after defending her dissertation

The latest education worldwide indicates that a teenager from Chicago recently graduated with a doctoral degree at the age of 17.

Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman II, who is the teenage, began her college journey at the age of 10, majoring in Psychology at the college of Lake County. She continued her studies, earning her Master of Science from Unity College at 13 and was accepted into the Doctor of Behavioral Health Management Program at Arizona State University at 15.

Tillman, inspired by her family’s emphasis on education, was drawn to psychology from a young age. She successfully defended her dissertation at 17, earning her doctoral degree in integrated behavioral health from ASU’s College of Health Solutions. She expressed excitement about walking at ASU’s commencement ceremonies, highlighting the joy of celebrating with peers.

Dr. Leslie Manson, Tillman’s professor, praised her growth in professional writing and leadership during her time at ASU. Tillman’s dedication and curiosity serve as inspiration to other students.

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Supported by her mother, Tillman founded the Dorothyjeanius STEAM Leadership Institute, promoting education through programs like summer camps that combine arts and STEM subjects.

Looking ahead, Tillman is grateful for her achievements but is still exploring her future goals. She advises youngsters to be cautious of social media influences and encourages them to embrace uncertainty while striving to figure out their paths.

Tillman’s story exemplifies determination, resilience, and the importance of education in shaping one’s journey towards success.

Speaking to “Good Morning America,” Tillman said she has always held education in such high regard in part due to her family’s background.

“People in my life like my grandmother, who was part of the Civil Rights Movement, she of course harped on the importance of education and consistently learning something always,” Tillman said.

“But the way I always held education so high on my own, aside from being raised that way was finding different things to be educated about it doesn’t just have to be all of the subjects that they teach you in school there’s so many things in the world to learn about that we wish we knew about,” she said. “I feel like that urge to learn something new just never didn’t exist for me.”

Tillman said, growing up, she had always felt drawn towards psychology and related fields.

“They’ve always made me so curious,” she said. “And so grinding away, I could continue to study in that area. With even more that was attached to it. It was just really intriguing to me.”