Early graduation: Few young people graduate from university at the age of 17, but Dorothy Jean Tillman II is one of them. In 2024, she was part of the graduating class at Arizona State University (ASU) based in Phoenix, Arizona (USA), where she earned her doctoral degree in integrated behavioural health.
Homeschooled in her early years in Chicago, Dorothy began taking correspondence college courses at age 10. Over the next seven years, she studied at three different universities before finishing her degree at ASU. The university says Dorothy is the youngest person in school history to earn a doctoral degree in integrated behavioural health. Her remarkable achievement is an inspiration to young scholars everywhere.
Goose guards: While guard dogs are a familiar concept in many places, have you ever heard of guard geese? In Santa Catarina, Brazil, the So Pedro de Alcntara Prison has employed geese as a security measure. These feathered sentinels, dubbed geese agents, patrol the perimeter of the prison, between the inner and outer walls, and provide an additional layer of vigilance alongside electronic and human surveillance. Their remarkable attentiveness has earned them recognition as effective members of the prison's security team. Despite their unorthodox role, the geese have proven themselves to be dedicated and alert guardians, who deter potential intruders with their loud honks and watchful eyes.
Barrow blitz: Dylan Phillips, a mechanic from Pembrokeshire, England, has achieved a new Guinness World Record for the fastest wheelbarrow, reaching speeds up to 84 km/h. The idea started in a pub and quickly turned into a reality for the man, who built the wheelbarrow in his shed. During a test, he hit 59 km/h, sparking his interest in the world record, which stood at 74 km/h. Phillips then took his creation to the Straightliners Speed Week, where he smashed the record. Despite its impressive speed, the wheelbarrow is dangerous, lacking suspension and having only front-wheel brakes. Phillips described the ride as terrifying and uncomfortable.
Campus cat: There's a feline who can now boast the title Doctor of Litter-ature. Max the Cat received this honourary certificate from Vermont State University in Castleton, Vermont (USA), where he is a frequent and cherished visitor. The students adore interacting with him, and the university regards him as a beloved member of its community. Unlike typical academic pursuits, Max's focus is on friendliness. For about four years, Max has made daily visits from his nearby home to spend time with students and faculty, becoming a campus celebrity. Students love taking photos with their four-legged friend. Although Max didn't attend the graduation ceremony, his certificate was delivered to his owner afterward.