ANTIOCH -- They were Dozier-Libbey Medical High's first students to struggle through a rigorous medical-themed curriculum, figure out how to make wearing scrubs a fashion statement and make the daily drive down a long two-lane road to the secluded campus.

Now the school's first graduating class is about to embark on their next pathway.

The 127 seniors at the Antioch magnet school finished their time as student trailblazers Friday afternoon, receiving their highly sought diplomas.

Just before the tassels were turned to the left and caps thrown into the air, Alexa Gordon spoke about how her class was a group of pioneers.

"We've been living in a fish bowl, being judged and surveyed. The way of the pioneer is tough, but we beat the odds," Gordon said.

"It's been really great, just to be that class that kind of sets the tone and a high standard," senior Seth Martinez said during Thursday's graduation practice.

"At times we felt like the guinea pigs, but I think it's definitely prepared us for college."

Added senior Raymond Maciel: "There is definitely more of a drive here, to strive to get into a college."

About half of the Dozier-Libbey graduates are attending four-year colleges, while the rest are enrolled in two-year colleges, entering trade schools or enlisting in the military. Additionally, over 80 percent of the seniors earned the Dozier-Libbey Certificate of Excellence, a distinction given to students

Principal Nancie Castro is excited for the graduates' futures but sad to see the kids go. It was just five years ago when the district broke ground on a former cow pasture for the school, she said.

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Students at Antioch medical high school ready to make mark