On March 14, 2024, as Pi Day approaches, we once again turn our attention to Irving's own Aarin Shah, who has continued to impress with his remarkable abilities. Having followed Aarin's journey over the past few years, it's evident that his talent knows no bounds.
In 2022, at just 11 years old, Aarin was able to recite the first 250 digits of Pi from memory. The following year, he surpassed his own record, reciting an impressive 314 digits. Now, in 2024, Aarin, a 7th grader at Ignite Learning Academy, has achieved a hat-trick, reciting Pi from memory for the third consecutive year. Despite aiming for 400 digits this year, his busy schedule allowed him to reach 350, a commendable increase from last year. Aarin will continue to apply to Pi world ranking list where he has already been ranked for his past recitation.
Continuing to pursue his passion for mathematics, Aarin is also delving deeper into his love for music with a keen interest in classical piano and music theory. Given his perfect pitch, ear training is easier for him. Perfect Pitch, an ability so rare as to be seen in 0.01% of the population is believed to be something you are either born with or can learn below the age of 6 and is often a savant like skill.
Reflecting on his passions, Aarin expressed, "I love the 3 Ms: Math, Music, and Memory."
When Aarin was a kindergartner, he memorized license plate numbers of vehicles of all the neighbors, a memory feat ability that stemmed from him being hyperlexic. This came with other challenges such as delayed speech and comprehension. Today, he uses this gift of memory to his advantage in areas such as music and other academic interests.
Beyond academics, Aarin has dedicated himself to community service through his school's National Junior Honor Society, supporting initiatives like the Food for Thought program by the Irving School Foundation. Packing and loading food bags for schools in need, Aarin finds fulfillment in giving back to his community.
Looking ahead, Aarin dreams of visiting the Mozart museum in Austria, but for now, he's eagerly anticipating indulging in his favorite local pizza on Pi Day, his favorite day of the year!
We celebrate and congratulate this extraordinary young man!
