Alisa Perales, an 11-year-old academic prodigy, has accomplished what many adults strive for years to achieve. The young student has earned two associate degrees and is now preparing to attend the University of California, Riverside, where she will study computer science.
Behind this remarkable achievement stands Rafael Perales, Alisa’s father, who has been raising his daughter as a single parent. Rafael has played a crucial role in supporting his daughter’s accelerated academic journey, helping her navigate educational systems typically designed for students much older than Alisa.
Educational Journey
Alisa’s academic path has been anything but typical. While most children her age are completing elementary school, she has already earned two associate degrees—an accomplishment that typically takes college students at least two years to complete. These degrees have prepared her for the next significant step in her educational career: attending UC Riverside.
The university, known for its strong
computer science program, will welcome Alisa as one of its youngest-ever students. Computer science, a field that combines mathematical theory, programming, and problem-solving, will be her primary area of study—a choice that positions her at the forefront of one of today’s most in-demand disciplines.
Single Father’s Support
Rafael Perales has been instrumental in his daughter’s success. As a single father, he has taken on the responsibilities of both parents while also advocating for his daughter’s unique educational needs. In sharing their story, Rafael has offered insights into the challenges and rewards of raising a gifted child.
“Supporting Alisa has meant recognizing her abilities early and finding educational opportunities that could challenge her,” Rafael explained. His dedication has involved researching programs, communicating with educational institutions, and ensuring his daughter maintains a balanced life despite her accelerated academic schedule.
Navigating Early College Admission
Entering university at such a young age presents unique challenges. Most university systems are designed for adult learners, making Alisa’s situation exceptional. The admission process likely required special considerations and approvals from UC Riverside.
Early college admission for exceptionally gifted students involves careful evaluation of academic readiness, emotional maturity, and social adjustment factors. For students like Alisa, universities often develop customized support systems to ensure their success in an environment where most students are significantly older.
Some key considerations for early university admission include:
- Academic preparation and demonstrated mastery of prerequisite knowledge
- Social and emotional readiness for a college environment
- Support systems both at home and within the institution
- Legal considerations for minors attending college classes
Future Prospects
Alisa’s early entry into higher education in computer science positions her for potential contributions to the field at a remarkably young age. Computer science graduates are in high demand across industries, from software development to artificial intelligence research.
The field offers numerous career paths that Alisa might explore as she continues her education. With her demonstrated aptitude for academic achievement, she may go on to pursue advanced degrees or specialized certifications in areas like software engineering, data science, or cybersecurity.
Alisa’s story represents an extraordinary example of academic giftedness and the impact of dedicated parental support. As she begins her studies at UC Riverside, she joins a small group of exceptionally young university students who have demonstrated unusual academic abilities at an early age.
