13-year-old prodigy with IQ 168 creates a sensation

Graduating high school at just 11 years old with an SAT score of 1590/1600, 13-year-old Joe Petraro-Hyppolite has generated buzz after being accepted into a master's program at New York University.

Joe Petraro-Hyppolite, a 13-year-old prodigy, is already charting an extraordinary academic path, preparing to enter a master's program next fall. While many teenagers volunteer to bolster college applications, Joe, already a student at Louisiana State University, dedicates his holidays to assisting seniors at a nursing home.

His exceptional intellect is evident in his impressive academic record. With an IQ of 168, placing him in the "genius" category, Joe scored 1590/1600 on the SAT at just 10 years old. He earned his high school diploma one year later. He is currently a sports management student alongside peers significantly older than him.

Despite his academic prowess, Joe's youth often surprises those around him. "They often do a double-take, as if they cannot believe it", Joe told CBS News.

This academic journey reached a new height with his acceptance into New York University's master's program, ranked among the top 35 in the US by US News. Joe will specialize in sports management, combining exercise science and biology.

While excited about future prospects, Joe acknowledges the challenges ahead. The young man expressed apprehension about the road ahead, a sentiment many share. "But on the other hand, I am also very excited because new doors are opening", Joe stated.

Joe's achievements are particularly remarkable given his personal journey. His mother, Anne Petraro-Hyppolite, revealed that this achievement far exceeded the family's expectations. This is not only due to Joe's young age but also because he previously attended special education classes after being diagnosed with Tourette's syndrome, a disorder causing uncontrollable movements and sounds.

His mother highlights his insatiable curiosity and rapid learning ability. "Everything he does now is truly unbelievable. He is simply very eager to learn and absorbs knowledge like a sponge", she remarked.

Joe emphasizes that his innate talent requires dedication and effort. According to him, innate talent does not mean everything comes effortlessly. "I was not born knowing everything. I still have to learn something one or two times to grasp it", he confided.

Beyond academics, Joe maintains a highly active and diverse life. Outside of his studies, Joe actively participates in kinesiology clubs and fundraising activities for the Louisiana branch of the Arthritis Research Institute. He also competes in baseball, basketball, golf, tennis, track and field, and cross country, according to Strive Times US.

Looking ahead, Joe has clear academic and career aspirations. He is currently focused on completing his bachelor's program to graduate next May. He stated that his long-term goal is to pursue paleontology.