Before the pomp and circumstance of Beaufort County’s largest high school graduations, 42 students at Beaufort County Early College High School received their diplomas.

The ceremony brought out officials from Beaufort County Schools and Beaufort County Community College to celebrate the occasion. This year’s valedictorian spot went to Andy Yeung, and the salutatorian spot went to Caitlyn Andrews.

Principal Emily Pake said this year’s graduating class was the largest one yet at the Early College, and 80 percent of the students received two-year college degrees, as well.

Usually set up on a five-year schedule, Early College students earn their high school diploma, as well as an associate degree from BCCC in their chosen programs.

At the ceremony, BCCC President Dr. Barbara Tansey spoke of how she enjoyed watching the students grow up over the past five years.

“I know you didn’t pay much attention to me during the last five years, but I paid a whole lot of attention to each of you,” she said. “I enjoyed watching spring arrive as you spent more time outside, studying, talking, planning, having fun, and yes, even romancing someone special.”

“I grew more and more proud of you each year,” Tansey added, smiling.

In her salutatorian address, Andrews said it was hard to believe graduation day had arrived.

“I’m nervous about moving away from home in just a few short months,” she said. “I’m scared to be in a new place with all new people. I’m scared to leave my family and my friends, and most of all, I’m scared of change. Fortunately for me, if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that being scared and being nervous aren’t always bad things.”

Tansey said she knows the students are ready for life after high school and hopes they will have positive memories of their time at the Early College.

“At some point in your life, I hope you will realize attending Early College High School was one of the best decisions you ever made,” she said.

In Andrews’ case, she’s ready for the challenges ahead.

“There’s no better feeling in the whole world than facing your fears and overcoming them,” she said.