How 9-Year-Old Aiden Wilkins Is Making History As A College Student

A 9-year-old Black boy genius is already enjoying what higher learning has to offer as he makes history as an undergrad at a college in his hometown of Collegeville, Pennsylvania.

According to NBC10 Philadelphia, Aiden Wilkins kicked off this school year as a college freshman. He was accepted into Ursinus College. After receiving the approval, he decided to further his education journey. When he became a student at the small institution, he set a record for the youngest scholar to attend the school. He’s already chosen the industry he desires to work in, which is the medical field.

9-year-old Aiden Wilkins is passionate about medicine

Three times a week, Wilkins has classes on Ursinus College’s campus, and on other days, he’s. When he isn’t taking college courses, he’s sitting in virtual classes at Reach Cyber Charter School as a sophomore. While many of Wilkin’s peers are just discovering life, he’s already decided the career path he wants to take. In an exclusive interview with According to NBC10 Philadelphia, he shared that he’s been watching anatomy videos since he was three years old.

“Ever since I was 3, I’d watch an anatomy video and was always fascinated when I saw the brain,” he told NBC10.

He eventually set his sights on becoming a pediatric neurosurgeon because it aligns with what he enjoys most, lending a helping hand.

“The reason why I want to be a pediatric neurosurgeon is mainly because I like helping kids around my age,” he said.

Aiden Wilkins’ family has always been supportive of him

After passing a benchmark test at his high school, Aiden shared with his mom, Veronica Wilkins, that he wanted to push himself intellectually. After conducting some research, she settled on Ursinus College due to its proximity to her home. She is proud of her son’s accomplishment, which is also inspiring for her to witness.

“It’s exciting because he’s making history and you know he feels great,” Veronica said. “I think it’s so important to be seen and heard.”

Aiden’s ambition wasn’t a surprise to his mother. She noticed her son’s learning abilities were advanced from the moment he started talking, and she isn’t surprised by his ability to earn college credits at an early age. 

“I’m extremely proud of Aiden because it’s all him,” she said. “It’s all organic. I’m just behind the scenes and he goes for what he wants.”

Aiden hopes his story motivates people to know their goals are achievable.

“What I really want people to know is that from my story all you have to do is put in work to do whatever you want,” he said.