Meet the 14-year-old trailblazer earning a degree from ASU
Driven by a passion for learning, 14-year-old Abigail Zagala knew ASU was where she belonged. She is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in social and behavioral sciences, and she plans to head to law school, having already been accepted at multiple schools. Photo by Samantha Chow/Arizona State University
Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable spring 2025 graduates.
At an age when most teenagers are navigating the complexities of middle school, 14-year-old Abigail Zagala is preparing to walk across the stage at Arizona State University this May to receive a college degree.
Not only will she accept her diploma at the graduation ceremony, she will also be honored with a New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences Dean’s Medalist Award. Her story is not only exceptional — it's redefining what’s possible for young minds.
Zagala was homeschooled and started reading shortly before she turned 2 years old. She took her first college-level algebra courses when she was 8 and finished high school by age 11. Now at 14, she is earning a bachelor’s degree in social and behavioral sciences, a subject that has fascinated her from an early age.
“I feel that as I better understand people, I'm able to better understand the world. And through that, I'm prepared to make a positive change in my community,” Zagala said.
Her mom, Sarah Zagala, says, “From a very young age, Abigail has always been naturally curious and incredibly connected to the people around her. She’s always had a deep love for learning, so my husband and I have done our best to nurture that. Whether it was trips to the library, museums or community centers, we wanted to give her opportunities to explore and challenge herself. She thrives in new environments and embraces challenges with enthusiasm.”
Abigail Zagala acknowledges the unique challenges that come with being younger than other students.
“When people hear that I’m 14 and about to earn my bachelor’s degree, they often assume I’ve sacrificed my childhood — that I don’t play, talk with other kids my age, that I’m missing out on something,” she said. “But I’m not. I’m only gaining by taking on these new experiences and opportunities. I’m able to learn and grow as a person, while still being able to enjoy my childhood.”
Deborah Jo Borden, who teaches in the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences at ASU’s West Valley campus, said she remembers her initial encounter with her vividly — not because of her age, but because of her demeanor.
“What’s interesting about Abigail is that she comes to the course with a presence that does not denote that she's a younger student,” Borden said. “I actually treated Abigail like every other student in my class. I expected her to produce content and quality as young adult students do.”
Zagala didn’t just meet those expectations — she exceeded them. Her maturity, work ethic and curiosity set her apart, even in a university setting filled with high achievers.
“Abigail isn't just academically advanced,” Borden said. “She’s emotionally intelligent. She listens. She reflects. She challenges ideas in a respectful way. She’s the kind of student every professor hopes for.”
Zagala speaks thoughtfully about her experiences.
“I started taking college classes when I was 12,” she said. “At first, I was nervous — I was the youngest in every class. But I quickly realized that I belonged here just as much as anyone else. I focused on why I was there. I’m passionate about learning. And I knew that this was where I needed to be.”
Zagala’s journey is sparking conversations about early college access, gifted education and the ways we can support nontraditional learners. She’s proof that age doesn’t define ability — and that brilliance can emerge in the most unexpected places.
“My advice to other parents is to support your child’s learning pace while also helping them stay socially connected,” Sarah Zagala said. “For us, that meant offering advanced learning opportunities while also organizing playdates, enrolling her in community activities and making sure she spent time with kids her own age. It’s about finding that healthy balance — nurturing their academic growth while also encouraging the joys and friendships of childhood.”
So, what’s next for this young scholar?
Zagala plans to attend law school this fall and has already been accepted to multiple schools across the U.S. She wants to pursue a career in human rights law.
“I look forward to researching innovative solutions to systemic barriers in our legal system and using the findings to advocate for changes in public policies that protect the rights of marginalized communities,” she said. “ASU has prepared me for that journey through rigorous coursework and the wonderful professors who have helped me to think critically and see my role in society.”
After earning a law degree, her long-term goal is to open a nonprofit organization and provide free services to underserved populations.
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Abigail Zagala (left) discusses coursework with fellow student Chrystal Vazquez.
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Abigail Zagala (right) and PhD student Amber Heemskerk collaborate during a session in the ASU Psychology and Law Lab.
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Abigail Zagala and Faculty Associate Debra Jo Borden review data and notes at ASU's West Valley campus.
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Abigail Zagala and her parents, dad Richard and mom Sarah, enjoy a sweet moment while taking graduation photos on the porch of Old Main on the Tempe campus.
Photo by Samantha Chow/Arizona State University
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