Harris Young, a 15-year-old student at Santiago Canyon College (SCC), has shattered the stereotype of the socially awkward genius. Graduating this month with an associate degree in social and behavioral sciences, Young has maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA since starting classes in 2024.
Despite being deemed 'profoundly gifted'—ranking in the top 99.9 percentile in IQ—he leads a well-rounded life, volunteering, excelling in athletics, and taking on a leadership role at SCC. Young's educational journey began with homeschooling due to boredom in traditional schools, transitioning to SCC through online classes and eventually in-person courses.
He now plans to earn additional associate degrees in chemistry, biology, math, and physics by age 17. Outside academics, Young volunteers at SCC's food pantry, won a national karate championship at age 5, excels in pickleball, and serves as director of administrative operations for the Associated Student Government.
He also embraces his stutter, viewing it as part of his identity. His mother, Shereen Siddiqui, an SCC professor, praises his kindness and brilliance.