Identical twins Nishtha and Nirmani Brahmbhatt have embarked on their next chapter as co-valedictorians from Hampton High School, graduating in June 2025 with impressive 4.65 grade point averages. The sisters have chosen to continue their education together at Old Dominion University (ODU), where they received full scholarships.
The twins, both 18 years old, are set to study different fields; Nishtha plans to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering, while Nirmani aims to specialize in computer science, aspiring to become a software engineer. Despite their distinct academic paths, the twins have always envisioned attending the same college.
“We do have a little friendly competition between us, but we’ve always been really close,” said Nirmani, the younger twin by a minute. “When we both ended up No. 1 in high school, we were really happy and proud.” Nishtha added, “Most of the time, we were each other’s go-to study partner.”
Close Family Ties and Shared Values
Nishtha and Nirmani will live at home during their college years, a choice influenced by their strong connection with their parents and their adherence to a strict Hindu dietary regimen that excludes meat, eggs, and certain spices. Notably, ODU does not require on-campus residency, allowing them to maintain this closeness. Both sisters attended freshman orientation together on June 24 and began classes on August 25, 2025.
Meghana Brahmbhatt, their mother, expressed pride in her daughters’ achievements. “It’s been amazing to see their bond grow over the years,” she said. “What’s made them successful is their focus, their kindness, and the way they always lift each other up.” She credits their spirituality for instilling values that keep them grounded and resilient.
The Brahmbhatt family immigrated to the United States from India in 2007. Their father, Kalpesh Brahmbhatt, serves as a Hindu priest, while Meghana works as an assistant at their temple. Most of the family, including Nishtha and Nirmani’s two older brothers, still reside in India. Born in New Jersey, the twins have lived in Hampton since they were two months old, attending local schools before enrolling in a rigorous international baccalaureate diploma program at Hampton High.
A Unique Academic Journey
Throughout their high school years, the twins maintained remarkably similar academic records. At times, Nirmani’s GPA slightly edged out Nishtha’s, but a strong performance in their advanced history course during their senior year resulted in a tie for valedictorian—a first for Hampton public schools, according to spokesperson Kellie Goral. Each sister delivered a five-minute speech at their graduation ceremony, marking a significant milestone in their educational journey.
“I joke that I was the valedictorian since ninth grade, and she only was for the very end,” remarked Nirmani, adding, “But really, we wouldn’t have come so far without each other.” Their extracurricular activities further highlight their close bond; both participated in volleyball, the National Honor Society, speech and forensics, and the Spanish Honor Society. They share a love for English and enjoy hobbies such as video editing, graphic design, dancing, and baking.
While they are similar in many ways, the twins acknowledge their differences. Nishtha describes herself as more mature and serious compared to Nirmani’s playful and sensitive nature. “I give her advice and comfort her like a typical older sister,” Nishtha said. “I help her not get too upset about little things.”
The twins gained admission to ten colleges, including Virginia Tech and the University of Virginia, ultimately choosing ODU for its proximity to home and financial feasibility.
Having traveled to spiritual conventions in California and New Jersey over the summer, Nishtha and Nirmani are eager to explore clubs and job opportunities at ODU. Although they plan to carpool to Norfolk when their schedules align, they will not attend the same classes.
“I’m a little nervous,” Nishtha admitted, reflecting on the transition to college life. “I don’t know what to expect or how I will handle the assignments and tests.” Meanwhile, Nirmani expressed her awareness of needing to adapt to a new environment. “I’m not that nervous, but I know I’ll need to manage my time effectively,” she noted.
Meghana Brahmbhatt looks forward to observing her twins’ growth in this new phase of life. “I’m so proud of who they are becoming—both together and as individuals,” she concluded.
