Kettering University

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Mentoring a young intellect

By Gary J. Erwin

On first glance, he looks like a typical 14-year-old eighth-grade student: black framed glasses, brown hair and the awkward gait of a kid growing into his long-limbed body. Nothing about him physically suggests the depth of his intelligence or how truly gifted he is.

Then again, intelligence is impervious to one’s physical appearance.

Still, the awareness is there. Yet the ego one might associate with an individual fully cognizant of his innate intellectual capabilities is absent, perhaps a product of a good, humble upbringing.

And for those corporate leaders who lament the country’s K-12 education system and lack of interest in science and math among our youth, this student represents a precise example of what is right with focused education and scientific opportunity for kids in the U.S.

Matthew R. Bauerle of Fenton, Mich., is a young man destined for a compelling career perhaps in the field of Electrical and Computer Engineering. Why? The evidence thus far is clear: a perfect 36 score on the science ACT test on his first try. Although his score on the math section was lower—a 33—his parents and his mentor, Dr. Mark Wicks of Kettering University, feel it’s only a matter of time before Matthew achieves perfection in the Math section of the ACT.

Bauerle is one of many kids across the country considered “profoundly gifted/intelligent,” according to the Davidson Institute (http://www.ditd.org/), an organization based in Reno, Nev., which recognizes, nurtures and supports profoundly intelligent young people and provides opportunities for them to develop their talents to make a positive difference.

Wicks, who is associate vice president of Academic Affairs, began working with the young student four years ago through Bauerle’s parents, Mary and Paul, who found the professor’s name through the Davidson Institute.  

“We contacted the Davidson Institute when we realized Matthew had special gifts,” Mary said. “We knew he would need a mentor and we requested their help in finding one. Eventually, we connected with Dr. Wicks through Davidson and he and Matthew have worked together since,” she added.

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