Man wearing a medal and earphones.
Share this @internewscast.com

An industrious high school graduate attended his Burger King shift mere hours following his graduation ceremony, prompting an observer to initiate a fundraiser for his college tuition.

Mykale Baker was still wearing his graduation stole and medals when he got back to work at the fast food joint last week.

Man wearing a medal and earphones.
Mykale Baker showed up for work in his graduation attire
High school graduate in cap and gown.
He had just graduated high school, and dreams of attending collegeCredit: Instagram/mykaleb19
A young man in graduation clothes crying while embracing a woman in a Burger King.  Another woman looks on, also emotional.
The teen was moved to tears at generosityCredit: tiktok

This dedicated 18-year-old from Georgia opted to forgo celebratory post-graduation activities, choosing instead to immediately begin saving for his college aspirations.

But his strong work ethic caught the eye of Maria Mendoza, who posted a video on TikTok after she noticed his attire.

The observer, touched by his commitment to achieving his dreams, was inspired to create a GoFundMe campaign aimed at augmenting his college savings.

The 20 second clip was soon viewed more than three million times.

Mendoza wrote: “While many graduates spent the night celebrating with friends and family, one young man quietly showed the world what determination looks like.

“Just after receiving his diploma — still proudly wearing his medals — he reported to his shift at Burger King.

“He didn’t do it for attention. He doesn’t even know his story went viral.

“But thousands of people were moved by his dedication, humility, and work ethic.”

Mendoza had just seen her own daughter graduate that same day when she spotted him hard at work in Burger King.

Former homeless World’s Strongest Man competitor shows his intense training as he bids for success in the USA

She added: “Let’s get together as a community and support this young kid.

“All funds raised will go directly toward helping him with college tuition, books, supplies, and other educational needs.

“Let’s show him that the world is watching—and rooting for him.”

The fundraiser has now gathered nearly $45,000 for Baker to make his college dreams a reality.

Mendoza returned to the same Burger King this week to present Baker with the donations.

“His dedication and quiet strength really moved me. I felt called to do something to recognise that,” she told local outlet 11 Alive.

“I’m just grateful I got to do something for him.”

The teen was moved to tears at generosity, revealing the financial uncertainty he had felt after finishing high school.

He told Mendoza’s TikTok followers how much their kindness meant to him in an emotional message.

“Thank you so much, I was thinking of taking a gap year because I didn’t have money for school, but thank you to all of you now, I might actually go straight to technical college and get my mechanical,” he said.

“I never thought this would happen to me, I’m very thankful.”

Burger King employee in graduation clothes.
The fundraiser has now gathered nearly $45,000 for Baker to make his college dreams a realityCredit: tiktok
Burger King restaurant.
Mendoza returned to the same Burger King this week to present Baker with the donationsCredit: tiktok
Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
A beginner’s guide to Kwanzaa

Unlock the Magic of Kwanzaa: A Beginner’s Guide to Celebrating Culture and Community

By GRAHAM LEE BREWER, Associated Press Since its inception in 1966, Kwanzaa…
'It's great to see': Fans fill Jacksonville ahead of Gator Bowl kickoff

Excitement Builds as Fans Flock to Jacksonville for Gator Bowl

Enthusiastic supporters from Missouri and Virginia are descending upon Jacksonville, bringing energy…
Times Square to feature patriotic crystal ball for New Year's Eve, kicking off US's 250th birthday in NYC

Times Square to Unveil Patriotic Crystal Ball for New Year’s Eve, Launching the US’s 250th Anniversary Celebrations in NYC

NEW YORK — As the iconic crystal ball descends in New York…
drawing give to Turning Point chapter showing person shot in the neck

TPUSA Leader Stands Firm Amidst Turmoil and Threats Following Kirk Incident

PHOENIX — In the aftermath of the tragic assassination of Turning Point…
Chicago celebrates 1st day of Kwanzaa with holiday events across city, including Malcolm X College, Bronzeville Children's Museum

Exciting Kwanzaa Festivities Kick Off in Chicago with Events at Malcolm X College and Bronzeville Children’s Museum

As Chicago ushered in the first day of Kwanzaa, the city came…
Why the Times Square New Year’s Eve ball will drop twice in 2026

Times Square to Host Historic Double Ball Drop on New Year’s Eve 2026: Here’s Why

For the first time ever, Times Square will host a ball drop…
Trump Administration Acknowledges Birth of Christ in Christmas Messages

Trump Administration Celebrates the True Meaning of Christmas: Acknowledging the Birth of Christ

Several Trump administration officials and agencies recognized the birth of Jesus Christ…
Preston Stone throws 3 TDs, Northwestern has 4 takeaways in 34-7 victory over Central Michigan at GameAbove Sports Bowl in Detroit

Preston Stone’s Three Touchdowns and Northwestern’s Four Takeaways Secure 34-7 Triumph Over Central Michigan at GameAbove Sports Bowl in Detroit

DETROIT — Preston Stone showcased his arm by tossing three touchdown passes,…
Trump reveals potential Kennedy Center marble armrests 'unlike anything ever done or seen before'

Trump Unveils Groundbreaking Marble Armrest Design for Kennedy Center – A First in Innovation

President Donald Trump has hinted at the introduction of unique marble armrests…
WATCH: Video shows suspect push trooper to ground before stealing patrol cruiser on Christmas Day

Shocking Video: Suspect Overpowers Trooper and Escapes in Stolen Patrol Car on Christmas

A man is now in custody following an unusual incident on Christmas…
Wrightwood, California flooding news: 4 weather-related deaths in state, with continued risk of mudslides

California Weather Crisis: Wrightwood Floods Lead to 4 Tragic Deaths Amid Ongoing Mudslide Threats

This week, Southern California experienced its wettest Christmas season in recent memory…
Former 'Big Brother' contestant Mickey Lee dead at 35

Former ‘Big Brother’ Contestant Mickey Lee Passes Away at 35

In a heartfelt tribute, fellow contestants of “Big Brother” have been remembering…