These days, it’s not too unusual for a high school student to take college-level classes through a dual-enrollment program. If they work hard enough, they can even earn their associate’s degree along with their high school diploma.
Of course, it’s much less common to achieve all of that when you’re just 12 years old!
Mike Wimmer of Salisbury, North Carolina, has always been a brilliant student with a passion for technology. He got his first iPad when he was just 18 months old and immediately wanted to know how it worked.
He became known as “the math and science guy” at school, and he taught himself computer programming and robotics through trial and error and watching videos online. The innovative 12-year-old has even started his own tech startup called Reflect Social. He hopes to use his technological know-how to help others.
“My entrepreneurial goal is to build technology that enables people to live better lives,” he said.
A year ago, Mike was attending Concord Academy High School while he simultaneously earned credits through the dual-enrollment program at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College.
When the novel coronavirus pandemic started, he decided to take a few more college classes since he had extra time on his hands. In just a year, he managed to complete a two-year associate’s program with a 4.0 GPA while also finishing high school with an eye-popping 5.45 GPA.
On May 21, he will graduate from community college. One week later, he’ll walk with his high school class and graduate as valedictorian!
His mom, Melissa Wimmer, said they are incredibly proud of their son, though they’re not necessarily surprised. He has always been tenacious about learning and achieving his dreams.
“If one door’s locked, he’ll find out another way around to figure out how to accomplish his goals,” she said.
As for what’s next for the wunderkind, he’s already received job offers and invitations to apply to top colleges to take his education even further. He might also work to expand his tech startup.
Mike has plenty of great options for his future, but he’s careful to take time to do regular kid stuff, too. He loves to play basketball and build LEGO masterpieces. “A lot of people think I’ve given up my childhood or somehow lost it,” he explained, “and I say to them that I’m having the time of my life.”
What a huge accomplishment! Mike is a true shining star and an inspiration to us all.
Share this story to congratulate him on his many achievements at such a young age.
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