Hampton Twins Excel as Co-Valedictorians, Choose ODU Together
Identical twins Nishtha and Nirmani Brahmbhatt have recently made headlines for their remarkable academic achievements, graduating as co-valedictorians from Hampton High School in June 2025, each boasting an impressive 4.65 GPA. The twins have taken their next step together by enrolling at Old Dominion University (ODU), continuing their shared journey in higher education.
While both sisters have distinct academic interests—Nishtha aims to major in mechanical engineering, and Nirmani plans to focus on computer science—they remain inseparable in their educational pursuits. “We do have a little friendly competition between us, but we’ve always been really close,” said Nirmani, who is the younger twin by just one minute. The twins applied to the same 20 colleges and chose ODU after each received full scholarships.
Shared Journey and Supportive Bond
Nishtha and Nirmani have been each other’s primary study partners throughout their high school years. “Most of the time, we were each other’s go-to study partner,” Nishtha explained. Their close-knit relationship is evident as they plan to live at home during their college years, citing their close bond with their parents and adherence to their Hindu faith, which includes specific dietary restrictions.
Their mother, Meghana Brahmbhatt, expressed pride in her daughters’ achievements and their strong bond. “It’s been amazing to see their bond grow over the years,” she remarked. “I think what’s made them successful is their focus, their kindness, and the way they always lift each other up.”
The twins began their college journey by attending freshman orientation on June 24, 2025, and commenced classes on August 25, 2025.
Academic Excellence and Extracurricular Involvement
The Brahmbhatt sisters have a history of academic excellence. Both attended Tucker-Capps Fundamental Elementary School and Spratley Gifted Center, eventually enrolling in the rigorous International Baccalaureate diploma program at Hampton High. Their academic records were closely matched throughout high school, with Nirmani often having a marginally higher GPA. However, during their senior year, a decisive straight A in advanced history allowed Nishtha to tie with her sister for the valedictorian title, marking a first for the Hampton public school system.
“Each of us gave a five-minute speech at the graduation ceremony,” Nirmani recalled. “I joke that I was the valedictorian since ninth grade, and she only was for the very end. But really, we wouldn’t have come so far without each other.”
The twins’ extracurricular activities varied from volleyball to the National Honor Society, and they shared interests in areas such as video editing, graphic design, dancing, and baking. While they share many similarities, they also have distinct personalities—Nishtha being more serious and mature, while Nirmani is known for her playful and sensitive nature. “I give her advice and comfort her like a typical older sister,” Nishtha noted.
Although they were accepted to ten different colleges, the decision to attend ODU was influenced by its proximity to home and the financial relief provided by their scholarships.
Now, as they embark on their college journey, the twins are looking forward to participating in clubs and possibly securing part-time jobs. Despite their shared path, they recognize that they will not be in the same classes. “I’m a little nervous,” Nishtha admitted. “I don’t know what to expect or how I will handle the assignments and tests.” Meanwhile, Nirmani expressed her intent to adapt to the new environment. “I know I’ll need to manage my time effectively,” she added.
Meghana Brahmbhatt, who immigrated to the United States from India with her husband, Kalpesh Brahmbhatt, in 2007, is keen to see how her daughters navigate this next chapter of their lives. “I’m so proud of who they are becoming—both together and as individuals,” she shared.
As the Brahmbhatt twins take on this new challenge, their journey continues to reflect the strength of their bond and the values instilled in them by their family.
