Alena Analeigh Wicker, who at just 12 years old, graduated high school and is now accepted into medical school at just 13!
In an interview with Good Morning America, we find out that Wicker is currently enrolled at Arizona State University and Oakwood University, studying biological science. After graduating from college, she will attend the Heersink School of Medicine at the University of Alabama.
When asked about her achievements, Wicker said, “After I was accepted, it was the most amazing moment, and just knowing I reached the goal of getting into med school at this age was amazing for me.”
Wicker said that she plans to become a viral immunologist, which is the study of viruses.
Wicker credits having a sound support system for her success. Wicker stated that her mother is her biggest supporter and “always gave her opportunities over things.”
“They were there when I needed them and they gave me that support to say, don’t give up on your dreams.”
Wicker’s Mother said, “She was always smart, gifted, and ahead,” and then stated, “I knew that I had to nurture her gift.”
Wicker encourages other young people and stated,
“Well, first I would say don’t let anybody tell you no because there was a lot of people who told me no or that I couldn’t do what I dreamed to do,”
Being the amazing little girl that she is, Wicker volunteers by feeding the homeless and mentoring other girls. Wicker has also started an organization called Brown Stem Girl to advocate for women and girls who look like her wanting to get into the STEM field. Wicker stated,
“That’s what struck my passion for advocating for them, really giving them those opportunities and showing them that they can do whatever they put their mind to. They can have the same path as me and become whatever they want to become without anybody telling them it’s impossible,”
If we learn anything from this encouraging story, it’s to work hard and never give up on our dreams!
