- June 21, 2025
At just 14 years old, Imronbek Kadirbek of Ormond Beach has earned his Associate of Arts degree from Daytona State College, graduating on Tuesday, May 13. His milestone comes before he has even received his learner’s permit.
Recognized with high honors and inducted into Phi Theta Kappa for his exceptional academic performance, Imronbek is now working toward completing his bachelor’s degree by age 15, with plans to apply to medical school shortly thereafter. He has already been accepted into Daytona State College’s Bachelor of Applied Science program and began classes on Tuesday, May 20.
His achievement, made possible through Florida’s dual enrollment program, is the result of academic focus, disciplined planning, and strong family support.
Imronbek’s educational path is far from conventional. Inspired by his parents’ careers in medicine— his mother, Nargiza Ayupova, is a Doctor of Nursing Practice, and his father, Jasurbek Kadirbekov, is a neurosurgeon in Uzbekistan — he chose to bypass traditional high school and begin college-level coursework as early as possible.
“I didn’t want to wait around,” he said of his decision to fast-track his education.
He graduated from Imagine School at Town Center in Palm Coast in May 2024. His 10-year-old sister, Jasmina Kadirbek, currently attends the same school and is already setting high goals of her own.
While viewing her brother’s AA degree, Jasmina joked, ‘That’s cute — I’m aiming for a PhD,’” their mother recalled.
Imronbek’s older sister, Aziza Kadirbek, also played a guiding role in his academic path. She earned her associate degree at age 16 and helped him navigate the intricacies of college course selection and planning.
Currently pursuing a biomedical sciences track, Imronbek has completed rigorous college coursework in chemistry, biology, physics, trigonometry, and statistics. Maintaining a 4.0 GPA, he is preparing to take the Medical College Admission Test and is considering medical schools in Florida, particularly near the Orlando area.
He credits much of his academic progress to his academic advisor at Daytona State College, Mark Nabors, who helped him build a strong foundation and make the most of the dual enrollment program.
From early college coursework to martial arts and Quranic memorization, Imronbek’s life is defined by purpose, structure and faith.
Time management and personal discipline have been key to his success. Imronbek follows the Pomodoro study method, using focused 30-minute sessions followed by short breaks. His daily schedule includes academic work, physical training, and spiritual practice.
Practicing Islam is an integral part of his daily routine. As a devoted member of the Islamic Center in Bunnell, he performs five daily prayers, even while on campus.
“Whenever I have class and there’s a prayer time, I come early, get my prayer mat, pray, and then go to class,” he said.
His sister Aziza fondly refers to him as “Sheikh Imran” in their community, recognizing his commitment to memorizing chapters of the Quran and staying connected to his faith.
Outside the classroom, Imronbek continues to demonstrate discipline and drive. He holds a second-degree black belt in Taekwondo, having trained since age four, and has recently transitioned to practicing Muay Thai.
“The higher the dan, the harder the test,” Aziza said. “You’re breaking bricks, sparring, and testing at the federation level.”
He also runs a small car washing business, earning approximately $500 per month. He plans to launch a website to expand his client base. In addition to his academic and entrepreneurial efforts, Imronbek volunteers regularly at his local mosque, continuing a family tradition of community involvement.
“He’s not just studying. He’s building a foundation for a meaningful career that can help others,” said Ayupova, his mother.
