At 9 years old, Aiden Wilkins is already making history as the youngest student to enroll at Ursinus College.

The Collegeville, PA, prodigy is technically still a high school sophomore at his local charter school. Still, a few days a week, he steps into college lecture halls for neuroscience classes, as PEOPLE reports. While most kids his age are navigating elementary school, Aiden is learning about brain function and neuroplasticity.

His mother, Veronica Wilkins, first noticed his special abilities when he surprised her by reading traffic signs at just 2 years old.

“I could just read them when most kids at my age, at like 2, could barely even speak,” Aiden told ABC Channel 6, adding, “I just grasped it so fast.”

That early spark soon revealed itself in full. After taking a gifted test a few years later, Aiden was officially recognized for his advanced abilities. Since then, he’s been chasing knowledge in every direction, with his main fascination locked on the human brain.

“Ever since I was 3, I’d watch an anatomy video and was always fascinated when I saw the brain,” he told NBC Channel 10.

His ultimate goal is to become a pediatric neurosurgeon.

“The reason why I want to be a pediatric neurosurgeon is mainly because I like helping kids around my age. It’s sad to see kids around my age with neurodisabilities, so I want to help them out,” Aiden shared with Channel 10.

Veronica says while she’s proud of her son for reaching the college level at such a young age, what matters most is that he feels seen for who he really is.

“It’s exciting because he’s making history, and you know he feels great. I think it’s so important to be seen and heard,” she told the outlet. She added that her son’s path has been entirely self-driven: “I’m extremely proud of Aiden because it’s all him. It’s all organic. I’m just behind the scenes, and he goes for what he wants.”

Faculty at Ursinus College have also taken note of his curiosity and drive. Kelly Sorensen, associate provost for academic affairs, recalled in an email to PEOPLE how Aiden first appeared on campus earlier this year “in a snazzy suit and tie, curious and eager to talk about glial cells and neuroplasticity — and even Shakespeare.”

Sorensen added, “We’re delighted to be a part of Aiden’s journey, which is as exceptional as he is. The challenge is to keep his hungry mind well-fed.”