Identical twin sisters Analisa and Alyssa Rhymer are set to graduate from Kennesaw State University on December 18, fulfilling a promise made to their late father. The sisters, who pursued degrees in psychology at the Norman J. Radow College of Humanities and Social Sciences, held an early graduation ceremony at their father’s hospital bedside before his passing from stage 4 pancreatic cancer.
“We knew his journey was coming to an end, and he would not be around to see us graduate in 2025, and this was his dream for us,” Analisa said. “We wanted him to know we were going to finish. We walked in and surprised him, and it was one of the few times we’ve ever seen him cry.”
The twins moved from Arizona to Georgia as teenagers, attended South Gwinnett High School, and later joined their older brother at KSU. Their academic journey included making the Dean’s List multiple times and participating in organizations such as the American Student Medical Association, Psi Chi honor society, and Golden Key International Honor Society.
During their sophomore year at KSU, their father Warren Rhymer Jr., a single parent who raised four children alone, received his cancer diagnosis. This led the sisters to balance caregiving responsibilities with coursework and financial difficulties. Alyssa considered leaving school to support her family but was encouraged by Analisa to continue.
“I felt like I had to quit everything and support the family,” she said. “But Analisa reminded me of what Dad would have wanted. She said, ‘Think about what he would say if you gave up now.’ And she was right.”
Inspired by caring for their father during his illness, both sisters decided they wanted careers in medicine. They enrolled in a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program through KSU’s Community and Professional Education unit while continuing full-time studies. After earning CNA certifications—even as their father passed away just before one exam—they began working weekends at a nursing home and volunteered with Regency Southerncare Hospice.
“When I take care of patients, I see my dad in them,” Alyssa said. “I want to give them the emotional support he gave us—kindness, patience, dignity. Being a CNA showed me that medicine is where I’m meant to be.”
KSU faculty played a significant role in supporting the twins throughout these challenges. Daniel Niederjohn, associate professor of psychology at KSU, noted: “Both sisters embody excellence and empathy, yet in unique ways,” Niederjohn said. “Analisa bridges psychology with patient care, while Alyssa combines scientific innovation with a deep commitment to service. I’ve truly enjoyed seeing them grow as students and know they will continue to make a meaningful impact beyond KSU.”
After graduation, Analisa and Alyssa plan to work as CNAs while preparing for medical school entrance exams.
“Before my father had passed, he had told me that I shouldn’t give up on my dreams because of his illness,” Alyssa said. “He said nothing should stop you from becoming what you always wanted to be.”
Reflecting on their experience overcoming personal loss while completing college degrees together at KSU, Analisa offered advice for others facing hardship: “Don’t give up,” Analisa said. “Even if it takes years, even if life hits you hard, just keep going. One day you’ll look back and realize every step was worth it.”
