17-Year-Old Graduate Accepted to Multiple Colleges and Universities with Plans for a Career in Biomedical Engineering 

Ean, a 17-year-old student from Pacoima, has big plans and he’s not wasting any time. A proud graduate of iQLA, Ean finished high school a year early and has been accepted to multiple California State University campuses and UC Merced. This fall, he plans to attend California State University, Northridge (CSUN) with the goal of transferring to UCLA or USC to study biomedical engineering, before ultimately pursuing a career in medicine. 

A Personal Motivation for a Career in Dermatology 
Ean’s passion for science started early, but his inspiration to become a dermatologist is personal. His older sister was diagnosed with discoid lupus, a skin condition that limits sun exposure and requires lifelong care. That experience drove Ean to pursue a field where he could make a direct impact. 

“I wanted to see what I can do and what kind of medications would help her,” Ean said. “That really sparked my inspiration.” 

Finding His Path Through Online Learning 
Ean enrolled at iQLA in eighth grade, just after the pandemic, when his family decided that online school would offer a safer and more flexible option for him. What began as a health decision quickly turned into a long-term academic advantage. 

“At first, I didn’t know how it was going to work. I thought we just did everything by ourselves,” he said. “But once I understood the schedule and got into a routine, it worked really well for me.” 

Online learning gave Ean the freedom to manage his time, explore new interests, and focus on his goals. iQLA’s structured schedule, state-credentialed teachers, and full K12-powered curriculum gave him the guidance and support he needed to stay on track academically. That foundation allowed him to thrive and even find time to pursue boxing for physical activity outside the virtual classroom. 

“I feel like I’m doing way better now than I would have if I went to an in-person school,” Ean said. “I had more time for other passions.” 

Getting a Head Start on College 
Thanks to encouragement from his mom, Ean also participated in dual enrollment, which allowed him to take college-level courses in subjects like political science and gaming history while still in high school. It’s just one of the many ways he’s been able to stay ahead.  

“She told me, ‘If you want to be great, go do it,’” he said. “And that motivated me.” 

Looking Ahead 
After celebrating graduation with his family, including grandparents who flew in from Nigeria, Ean is ready for the next chapter. This fall, he’ll begin college with a clear vision: stay focused, keep pushing forward, and pursue a future in medicine rooted in purpose and personal connection. For students considering online school, Ean says iQLA gave him the balance and structure he needed to thrive. 

 “You have less stress, more time for yourself, and the freedom to focus on what really matters to you. I think it’s a better experience.”