Student Spotlight: Aris

How Online Learning at WAVA Launched a 15-Year Old’s Dream of Becoming an Oncologist

After graduating high school from Washington Virtual Academies at just 14 years old, Aristotle (Aris) has been making remarkable strides toward a medical career. Now at 15, he has paved another series of milestones including becoming the youngest student ever enrolled at the University of Arizona, where he is now a junior studying Biological Medical Sciences and Biomedical Engineering with aspirations to become an oncologist.

Finding the Right Learning Environment

Aris’ journey to this point has been far from ordinary. Before moving to Washington State, Aris attended a brick-and-mortar school in Maryland, where he found that the conventional learning environment of a traditional in-person school did not support his learning needs. As a student with autism, Aris faced challenges in traditional classroom settings that didn’t support his educational drive. Struggling with overstimulation in crowded hallways and noisy learning environments, Aris and his family made the decision to switch to online schooling.

Transitioning to Washington Virtual Academies provided the flexibility and support Aris needed to fully thrive. Through the school’s Highly Capable Program, he was able to accelerate his studies in math and science while taking advanced coursework, including credits at a nearby community college, setting him on an expedited path toward college and his future medical career.

Academic Excellence and Leadership

A proud Colville tribal descendant, Aris not only graduated at the top of his high school class with Honors but also earned memberships in the National Honor Society, Phi Theta Kappa, and the Bio-Medical Engineering Society. His dedication to learning led him to take part in the EHS-Rise Academic Researcher program, win a grant to establish and become CEO of the non-profit, Teen Innovators, and maintain a position in the W.A. Franke Honors College while pursuing an accelerated master’s track. He has also been cast in the upcoming film I Hear You Gen Z, set to debut in February, 2026.

Advancing Research and Innovation

Pictured above, Aris shares his groundbreaking research at Northern Arizona University, exploring how coding can modify DNA sequencing technologies like CRISPR to advance genetic analysis.

Advocacy for the Neurodivergent Community

Beyond academics, Aris is a passionate advocate for the neurodivergent community, even speaking before Congress in support of the Autism Cares Act. His story exemplifies how personalized learning can provide the right environment for students to thrive, pursue their passions, and reach extraordinary milestones at a young age.

With his unwavering determination, curiosity, and commitment to advocacy, Aris is already leaving a lasting impact on both his academic community and the broader world. As he continues his journey at the University of Arizona, he serves as a powerful example of the limitless potential of young minds when given the support and opportunities to excel.

A Testament to Student Success at Washington Virtual Academies

By finding an environment that met his unique needs at Washington Virtual Academies, Aris was able to flourish academically, pursue advanced research opportunities, and cultivate a sense of independence and confidence that other classrooms had not provided. This supportive foundation not only accelerated his path to college and a future in medicine but also empowered him to become a leader and advocate for the neurodivergent community. Aris’ story is a testament to how the right learning environment can unlock potential, spark innovation, and set young minds on a trajectory to achieve extraordinary impact