Three siblings, three degrees, one graduation stage.
Triplets Chiamaka, Somto and Anita Anigbogu graduated from the University of Houston after studying together while pursuing separate degrees. They were part of the university’s record-breaking graduating class of 7,819 students.
Born in New York and raised in Nigeria, the Anigbogu triplets grew up balancing independence with a close sibling bond. At the University of Houston, they moved through college together while adjusting to life, studies and distance from home.
Each followed a different academic path, according to UH News. Chiamaka earned a Bachelor of Science in economics, Somto completed management information systems, and Anita graduated with a degree in computer information systems from the Cullen College of Engineering.
Anita said having her siblings nearby shaped her college experience in a major way.
“They became my anchor and support system, my built-in best friends,” she said. “Having the three of us by each other’s side made the journey a seamless experience.”
Somto said being a triplet sometimes led to comparisons, but it also helped him focus on personal growth.
“People often compared us, expecting us to be on the same level in everything,” he said. “But I’ve learned to stay true to who I am, success looks different for everyone.”
Chiamaka said their parents helped them reach graduation together.
“It means everything to us to celebrate this together, but none of it would be possible without our parents,” she said. “They sacrificed so much for us to get here, and we wouldn’t be where we are today without their love and support.”
The University of Houston described this year as a milestone graduation season and said it marked the largest graduating class in school history.
“This spring, we are incredibly proud to celebrate the achievements of 7,819 graduates, a remarkable cohort whose energy and ambition have left an indelible mark on our campus,” Diane Z. Chase, senior vice president for academic affairs and provost, said.
The triplets plan to follow different career paths while keeping their bond strong.
“No matter where life takes us, we’ll always be close,” Somto said. “We’ve grown together, supported each other, and pushed each other to be better, and that’s not going to change.”
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