Washington Virtual Academies Alumni Spotlight: Aristotle Makes His Way to Medical School

After graduating high school at Washington Virtual Academies at just 14 years old, Aristotle is already making strides toward a budding medical career. At 15, he became the youngest student ever enrolled at his university in Arizona.

Aristotle may be thriving now, but his journey wasn’t always easy. As a student with autism, he had struggled with overstimulation in person, especially in crowded hallways and noisy classrooms. In fact, it was during the pandemic that Aristotle experienced a turning point in his educational journey, sparking pivotal changes that shaped the path to his success today. 

Before moving to Washington State, Aristotle lived in Baltimore, Maryland, and attended a traditional brick-and-mortar school.

Shifting to online learning with Washington Virtual Academies allowed Aristotle the opportunity to learn at a pace that was best suited for his own needs and without the distractions he experienced in his prior school setting.

Additionally, he was able to take part in the school’s Highly Capable Program (HiCap) for gifted students to excel in math and science and expedite his personal learning program and path to graduate early. The program also allowed him the opportunity to take credits at a nearby community college while he was in high school, furthering his trajectory to medical school

Aristotle’s father, James, shares his pride in his son’s incredible journey, “We are so grateful for K12 and the gifted program that allowed Aris to excel without limitations. The teachers have been incredibly supportive, challenging him to reach new heights. We couldn’t be more proud of what he’s accomplished and excited for what lies ahead.”

A Colville tribal descendant, Aristotle has not only consistently demonstrated his brilliance and determination, but he has excelled academically, graduating at the top of his class with Honors; earning a membership in the National Honor Society, Phi Theta Kappa, and the Bio-Medical Engineering Society. His passion for learning led him to pursue the pre-medical track at Everett Community College, chasing his dream of becoming an oncologist and a leader in the neurodivergent community.

With his unwavering determination, dedication to his education, and commitment to advocacy, Aristotle is a true example of the power of personalized learning and the limitless potential of young minds. While we wait to see what’s next for Aristotle and his journey to medical school, you can learn more about his story here.

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