HARTFORD--17-year-old TaTiana Tyrues' dreams are now reality thanks to her hard work and determination.

"I can't put it in words, it feels amazing," said Tyrues.

TaTiana is Geneva County high's valedictorian.

"she's worked for it," said Science teacher Henry Brooks.

Her title also comes with something extra.

Reports show , she's the first African American valedictorian in Geneva County high school's more than 40-year history.

"We were all excited just to realize that she made history," said TaTiana's grandmother Peggy Brown.

TaTiana's grandmother says she's been a high achiever since kindergarten.

"A 'B' was like falling out dead for her."

And her teachers agree,

"I've had her from 7th grade up, she's always been an excellent student," said Math teacher Ashley Tate.

"TaTiana is a real conscientious student, she works hard , she's diligent she likes the fine details, if it doesn't get through to her she's digging to find a way to get it," said Brooks.

TaTiana says she set her goal four years ago.

"I started in ninth grade, I was like I'm going to get this it's going to be mine."

And although it was tough

"it was challenging to try to get the highest grades every year in every class."

She made it through.

Her family says her achievement sets a good example for her brothers and sisters and others in the community.

"It's very important especially to show the kids that's coming up under her what they can achieve too," said Brown.

Next on her list is college where she plans to major in clinical psychology.

TaTiana's current GPA is a 96.9.