Elijah Precciely
Nationwide — This Black child prodigy is wasting no time making his mark on the world. At just 11-years old, Elijah Precciely is a full-time student at Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He is also the youngest full-ride scholarship recipient the university has ever signed.
The opportunity to start his college career early began when his mother reached out to a member of Southern University’s Physics department, Dr. Diola Bagayoko. While initially looking for lab space for his inventions, the professor invited Elijah to sit in on his classes.
While being homeschooled, he went on to take classes in biology, physics, and business. Now enrolled at the university as a full-time student, he will be studying physics and mechanical engineering through the honors college. Due to his previously earned credits, he already has a Sophomore class ranking.
“When I reflect on this Joseph S. Clark Presidential Scholars Award it means absolute legacy, nothing but legacy to me,” Elijah said while signing his letter of acceptance. “Those that have paved the way, I want to thank you for paving the way in my education, and I will absolutely pave the way for others to do the impossible. I am elated.”
As if his academic pursuits aren’t amazing enough, Elijah has also submitted five patents on his inventions and is a published author. His book, Mission Christian: God’s Got Firsts! is based around the idea that when people know they are loved, they can accomplish great things.
His other accomplishments include preaching his first sermon at just 5-years old and hosting his own weekly radio show on WTQT 106.1 FM.
According to Elijah, his secret to his success as an 11-year old Black prodigy with a full-ride scholarship is a strong desire to learn.
“You have to have a mindset to actually know ‘Hey I have to learn this, my life depends on it,’” Elijah told ABC News. “Act like your life depends on it because it does. When you learn, you increase your life.”