At 11, she started college. Now, at 18, she’s on the verge of a Penn degree

David Maialetti / Philadelphia Inquirer
By Susan Snyder

At 16, Soleil Hawley was the youngest student to enroll in the Bachelor of Fine Arts offered through the University of Pennsylvania in at least the last decade, Penn officials said, and one of only three under age 18 that Penn officials could recall in undergraduate programs offered by Penn’s College of Liberal and Professional Studies.

Her journey illustrates an alternative path to America’s traditional education system, one in which a highly motivated, self-directed student can carve out her learning at a pace she wants and can handle.

“Soleil is an amazing student and we are so pleased to have her here at Penn,” said Nora Lewis, Vice Dean of Professional and Liberal Education.

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