Brodie started off life in the Bronx, he fought to get out, studying loads, and eventually going to MIT studying bio engineering. It was there that he learnt about his powers. He learnt how to use them, using the machinery that was there. But he also didn’t want to use his powers to learn. He actually wanted to learn. He didn’t want to cheat. He left with honours, and went onto a job in a research facility. He worked there for many years, clashing his elders, and higher ups.