"My name is Abdul Morakinyo... I just turned 18 and I actually just found out I got into Brown University," Morakinyo said as the news was shared at their school.
His classmate and close friend Bryan Oko was also accepted.
"I got into Brown," Oko said.
The two students, who have been friends since they were 7 years old, credit each other, along with family support, for their academic success.
Oko said his parents played a major role in helping him reach this milestone.
"Another part of it would be my parents. I am first-generation, low-income. They've worked hard to get me where I am today," he said.
Morakinyo echoed that sentiment, pointing to his mother's influence.
"My mom has always pushed me to the be the best version of me work hard and always be kind to people around me," he said.
Their friendship has been marked by both competition and encouragement.
Both seniors rank at the very top of their graduating class, holding the No. 1 and No. 2 spots with all A's and A+'s.
About two weeks ago, the friends visited Brown's campus together. During that visit, they learned the total cost of attendance.
"Actually $100k that includes room and boarding," Morakinyo said.
Despite the price tag, the campus left a strong impression.
"It's a really cool campus. Incredible phenomenal all brilliant," Oko added.
Both Morakinyo and Oko received scholarships from Brown but said they are still concerned about remaining costs. Even so, they expressed pride in each other's achievements.
"I saw he got excepted to Brown. My jaw dropped and I was like this is incredible," Oko said.
As they look ahead to college, the students hope their story encourages others to aim high and apply to top schools.
"Honestly, if you have a goal, you have an idea, no matter what happens. Try your hardest to actually achieve it," Morakinyo said. "Hope for the best. Let them deny you. You can't deny yourself."'
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