16-Year-Old Lucas Hernacki Graduates College Before High School

During the recent winter commencement ceremony at McHenry County College, held on December 13, 2023, a remarkable achievement unfolded as Lucas Hernacki, a 16-year-old student from Cary, became one of the college’s 528 graduates. Lucas received his associate degree in arts, marking the unique distinction of graduating from college before completing high school.

Lucas’s academic journey has been characterized by a strong desire to excel. He leveraged the community college’s Running Start program, which allows high school students to earn dual credits. His determination to graduate early means he will complete high school as a junior at the age of 17 in the upcoming spring. “I was thinking to myself, ‘Well, why not?’” Lucas remarked, reflecting on his decision.

The foundation for Lucas’s accelerated education began in preschool when teachers at a Montessori school in Crystal Lake recognized his advanced capabilities. His father, Matt Hernacki, discovered Davidson Academy Online, a virtual institution designed for “profoundly gifted students.” This approach allowed Lucas to engage in college-level coursework from a young age.

At the age of 12, Lucas considered enrolling in a Spanish course at McHenry County College but did not proceed at the time. However, once he turned 15, he began taking dual-credit classes more earnestly, ultimately focusing on obtaining his associate degree. His coursework included a diverse array of subjects such as economics, speech, geology, construction, horticulture, and film, alongside Advanced Placement classes.

Balancing the demands of high school, community college courses, and a part-time job at a restaurant in Palatine required Lucas to develop strong time management skills. “It definitely was difficult sometimes to have everything going on at once, but I try to pace myself,” he acknowledged.

Matt Hernacki noted the challenges of guiding his son’s education, particularly balancing encouragement and allowing him to enjoy his childhood. He expressed pride in Lucas’s accomplishment, stating, “Luke is the first one with a college degree in our immediate family.”

As Lucas received his diploma, his speech instructor humorously inquired, “Are you even 18 yet?” A sentiment echoed by Christina Haggerty, Chief Advancement and Marketing Officer at McHenry County College, who expressed pride in Lucas’s outstanding achievement.

Looking ahead, Lucas is enthusiastic about his future plans, which include a hiking trip along the Appalachian Trail, spanning over 2,000 miles from Georgia to Maine, scheduled for 2027. He expects the journey to take approximately six months. “Everybody tells me I’m crazy, but I know he’s more than prepared,” his father said, emphasizing Lucas’s readiness for the adventure.

Lucas also has aspirations for higher education, with a particular interest in languages. He is currently fluent in Spanish, learning Italian, and intends to study Polish. While reflecting on his experience, he encourages other students to explore dual credit opportunities. “All you have to do is start with one class, and if it goes horribly, then it goes horribly. But if it doesn’t, then it can be a whole new opportunity,” he advised.

As Lucas Hernacki continues to carve his unique educational path, his journey serves as an inspiring example for students seeking to challenge conventional educational timelines.