13-Year-Old Makes History as Youngest Black Person to Get Accepted Into Medical School Thirteen-year-old prodigy Alena Analeigh Wicker just reached an awe-inspiring accomplishment.

By Wendy Medina

This story originally appeared on Black Enterprise

bsgscholars.com

Thirteen-year-old prodigy Alena Analeigh Wicker just reached an awe-inspiring accomplishment as the youngest Black person in the country to ever be accepted to a medical school.

Capturing the attention of University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Alena hopes to become a doctor. After already more than halfway done with her undergrad at Arizona State University and Oakwood University in just one year, Alena expects to reach her goal at 18.

"I really want to leave my mark on the world. And lead a group of girls that know what they can do," Alena said.

Last year, she spoke with 12 News fresh on her acceptance to ASU's engineering program and shared her dreams of working with NASA. However, she soon realized she was interested in a different type of science.

"It actually took one class in engineering, for me to say this is kind of not where I wanted to go," she said. "I think viral immunology really came from my passion for volunteering and going out there engaging with the world."

The child genius felt inspired by a trip to Jordan and the Brown STEM Girl foundation, a program she founded at 12, that provides resources to exceptional minority students by form of scholarships and mentoring as they transition from college to career life.

"What I want from healthcare is to really show these underrepresented communities that we can help, that we can find cures for these viruses," Alena said.

"I want to inspire the girls. I want them to see that there are no limits," she proclaimed.

Upon receiving her acceptance letter last week, she took to Instagram to express her joy and gratitude for her mom.

"Statistics would have said I never would have made it," she wrote. "A little black girl adopted from Fontana California. I've worked so hard to reach my goals and live my dreams.Mama I made it. I couldn't have done it without you. You gave me every opportunity possible to be successful. You cheered me on, wiped my tears, gave me oreos when I needed comfort, you never allowed me to settle, disciplined me when I needed . You are the best mother a kid could ever ask for. MAMA I MADE IT! You always believed in me.You allowed me space to grow and become, make mistakes without making me feel bad. You allowed me the opportunity to experience the world."

Congratulations Alena!

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Starting a Business

How to Build a Side Hustle That Stands on Its Own — Without Burning Out

Ready to take your side hustle to the next level? This article shows you how to turn it into its own unique brand that gets noticed and grows on its own.

Business Ideas

70 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2025.

Science & Technology

101 Small Business Ideas to Match Your Personality, Investment, Skills & Goals

Still stuck on what biz to start? Use AI to uncover 101 custom ideas aligned with your skills, values & lifestyle—plus a 90-day roadmap to launch with clarity.

Business News

AI Is Going to 'Replace Everybody' in Several Fields, According to the 'Godfather of AI.' Here's Who He Says Should Be 'Terrified.'

Geoffrey Hinton, called the "Godfather of AI" due to his pioneering work on AI, says some fields face a heavier risk of replacement due to automation.

Business Solutions

Access 25 Hours of AI Training for Less Than $20

This e-degree gives you hands-on AI training that's perfect for entrepreneurs wearing many hats.

Productivity

Squeeze a Whole Business Book into Your Lunch Break

Power through 1,800+ titles without falling behind on your calendar.