At just sixteen years old, Jivan Ramesh made remarkable history by becoming the youngest graduate of Stony Brook University (SBU) in many decades. His achievement was celebrated at the university’s recent Commencement ceremony, where he confidently walked across the stage to receive his diploma.
Jivan’s journey at SBU began when he was only thirteen, a time when most teenagers are just beginning high school. Over the course of only three years, he completed his degree, a feat made even more impressive by his heavy academic workload. Throughout his time at the university, he consistently carried a demanding course load of 20 credits per semester, supplemented by summer classes, and even completed his laboratory work ahead of schedule. His outstanding performance earned him recognition in an SBU news article titled, “From Cello to Cells: Jivan Ramesh Is SBU’s Youngest Graduate in Decades.”
What makes Jivan’s accomplishment even more extraordinary is his choice of majors. He graduated as a double major, successfully completing degrees in both biochemistry and music—a combination that reflects his diverse talents and interests.
Reflecting on his achievement, Jivan told Beth Squire, the author of the university’s news report, “It honestly still feels a little bit like a dream. With a lot of my things, it’s been like I didn’t quite realize I was there until I was there.” This humble comment reveals how surreal and significant this milestone was for someone so young.
Jivan attributes much of his success to his homeschooling background. He said that homeschooling taught him how to effectively manage his time and set priorities. It also allowed him to balance his rigorous academic pursuits with extracurricular activities, ensuring that he met deadlines and stayed on track. Despite the challenge of commuting an hour each way to SBU, Jivan maintained his schedule with the support of his parents. They often stayed on campus to drive him home or pick him up after classes and activities. So committed was his family to supporting his academic career that they eventually relocated closer to the university while he was still halfway through his degree program, according to the news report.
Though he was significantly younger than his classmates, Jivan actively engaged in campus life, joining various student groups and holding several jobs on campus. His involvement ranged widely, and he displayed the same kind of dedication and skill he showed in academics. He served as secretary of the Broadway Orchestra, music director for the Actors Conservatory, and even worked as a peer tutor at the Academic Success and Tutoring Center. These roles illustrated how he was a prodigy not just academically but also in his extracurricular engagements.
Jivan’s musical talent has deep roots. Since 2016, he has been performing with the Chinese Music Ensemble of New York, based in Flushing. Today, he holds the position of principal cellist in the ensemble. Beyond performance, he also teaches cello, music theory, and notation, passing on his knowledge and skills to others.
When asked why he chose to pursue both biochemistry and music as his double majors, Jivan explained the connection he saw between the two fields. “Music has something of a healing power. I was interested in the biochemical process that results in that. That’s initially what got me into it.” His father’s background in biochemistry and Jivan’s own fascination with how music influences mental health and behavior inspired this unique academic path.
During his time at SBU, Jivan’s original composition, titled “Memory,” was performed by a world-renowned guzheng player whom he invited to the campus. He described the experience with enthusiasm: “It was just such a wonderful experience to bring my work in the Chinese orchestra here to campus and help spread those ideas.” This event highlighted Jivan’s ability to blend his musical creativity with his cultural roots and academic community.
Jivan continues to compose music, and his most recent work before graduation was an electronic rendition of his compositions. Looking ahead, he has applied to several graduate programs specializing in music, with aspirations of becoming a professional composer.
Despite his intense focus on academics and music over the past three years, there is one practical milestone Jivan has yet to reach. He plans to obtain his driver’s learner permit soon—the one thing he jokingly admits he did not have time to fit into his busy schedule.
Jivan Ramesh’s journey is a testament to extraordinary talent, discipline, and the powerful support system provided by his family. His ability to excel in two demanding fields while actively participating in campus life and maintaining personal balance is truly inspiring. His story is a shining example of what determination and passion can achieve, regardless of age.