Newsonyx

Though unexpected, fraternal twins Imrane and Mounira Omurou Ba discovered they were graduating at the top of their class, earning valedictorian and salutatorian status. Despite the honor, the Central High School graduates began their high school careers with different goals, none of them having to deal with being the top two of their graduating class.

Imrane and Mounira entered America’s school system in 2015 after moving from Niger, Africa, to Maryland. While Imrane’s goal was to complete his high school requirements, Mounira aimed to make her parents proud, exceeding their goals. Through the Prince George County ESOL program, the twins were not only able to break the language barrier but also thrive in high school, graduating from Central High School on May 27. Imrane graduated with a 4.5 GPA and Mounira with a 4.4 GPA.

“It’s very surreal for me because I really didn’t expect this much attention, and a lot of friends and people have contacted us as well are like, ‘Wow, I didn’t know that you were on top of your class,'” Mounira, the salutatorian, said

. “I was like, ‘Yeah, me too.’ I’m surprised.”

The Oumarou Ba twins are inseparable and have been throughout their time at Central High School. Imrane played soccer, lacrosse, tennis, and ran track. Mounira was the sports manager for her brother’s soccer team since she couldn’t play in the boys’ league, but she did play on the girls’ soccer team and tennis.

As the two prepare for college, which they are planning to attend Louisiana State University starting in the fall, there’s a possibility they’ll begin to spend time apart because Imran is seeking to study sports medicine. In contrast, Mounira plans on studying international relations and political science.

Despite different majors, the two said humility would remain an essential character trait. The valedictorian said that while their parents are happy for their children’s current and upcoming success, “They are firm believers in remaining humble.”