California Teen, 17, Breaks Her Brother’s Record as the Youngest Person to Pass the State’s Bar Exam

California teen Sophia Park, 17, has become the youngest person to pass the state’s bar exam. Ironically, her success comes just one year after her older brother, Peter Park, achieved the same milestone at the same age.

The accomplishment occurred on November 8th, when Sophia was 17 years and 8 months old, to be exact. Her commitment and dedication were praised by her father, Byungjoo Park, who recently appeared on “Good Morning America” and explained that his daughter’s achievement wasn’t by luck but due to her many years of hard work.

“It’s the result of four years of consistent, dedicated work. It didn’t happen overnight,” he said. “She has a thorough understanding of the law and is committed to using it justly. This is just the beginning of her journey.”

In 2020, Sophia began her journey, enrolling in law school at just 13 years old while still in middle school. Two years later, Sophia earned her high school diploma and completed her law degree from Northwestern California University School of Law earlier this year. Currently, Sophia and Peter are both working at the Tulare County District Attorney’s Office as law clerks.

“Sophia’s amazing accomplishments speak for themselves, and we could not be prouder as an office family,” Tulare County District Attorney Tim Ward said. “It really is quite remarkable the success we have had with our law students, interns, and law clerks attaining their professional dreams.”

Additionally, the State Bar of California also recognized Sophia’s accomplishment, noting that achieving such a major milestone at a young age is “remarkable.”

“This remarkable achievement follows her brother Peter Park’s similar success last year, further highlighting their extraordinary dedication and talent,” Leah Wilson, Executive Director of the State Bar of California, said. “Passing the State Bar exam at any age is a tremendous accomplishment, and to do so at 17 is truly exceptional.”

Sophia told CBS47 KSEE24, “Sometimes I forget about my age too,” adding, “I’m really looking forward to working as an attorney. I would think this is just like the first step into my career.” She will be sworn in as a lawyer when she turns 18.

Outside of the accolades that Sophia and Peter have earned, Byungjoo said his third child is in her second year of law school, while his younger son is currently in elementary school.