While most high school graduates were out celebrating with friends and family, 18-year-old Mykale Baker had other plans — and his hardworking spirit has been rewarded!
Just hours after receiving his diploma from Mills Creek High School in Georgia, Baker clocked in for a shift at his local Burger King, still wearing his graduation stole and medals.
The moment, captured by fellow graduate mom Maria Mendoza, quickly turned into a viral sensation — and ultimately changed Baker’s life.
“Determination Looks Like This”
The moment occurred around 10:00PM on May 21, when Mendoza – who had just watched her own daughter graduate from the same high school – noticed the teen behind the drive_thru window , per the New York Post.
“While many graduates spent the night celebrating with friends and family, one young man quietly showed the world what determination looks like,” Mendoza wrote on GoFundMe.
Moved by Baker’s quiet dedication and “radiating joy,” Mendoza filmed the scene and shared a 20-second TikTok clip that has since racked up over 3.9 million views (as of this writing).
“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,” she added.
Viral Video Sparks a Community Movement
Mendoza wasn’t just impressed — she was inspired. The video prompted her to launch a GoFundMe campaign to support Baker’s college ambitions, and the response was overwhelming.
Initially raising $22,000 within days, the fundraiser has now surpassed $115,000 as of Saturday morning (May 31). The campaign aims to cover tuition, books, supplies, and any other educational needs Baker may face.
“Let’s get together as a community and support this young kid,” the fundraiser reads. “Let’s show him that the world is watching — and rooting for him.”
One kind donator wrote: “Congratulations, Mykale, on your graduation! Your dedication and positive spirit are truly inspiring.”
Another added: “Congratulations, Mykale!!! Continue to be GREAT at any and everything you set your mind to!!”
“You’re an inspiration without knowing it. Keep true to your values and follow your dreams. Congratulations on graduation and God Bless you on your future,” typed a third.
From Uncertainty to Opportunity
Baker, unaware of his rising fame, was brought to tears when Mendoza returned to the Burger King on May 26 to show him how much had been raised. In a follow-up TikTok, he hugged both Mendoza and his emotional mother while expressing his gratitude.
“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 (sic),” Baker said in the video.
“I never thought this would happen to me, I’m very thankful,” he added.
A Life-Changing Moment
The teen, who had considered deferring his college plans due to financial hardship, now has a clear path ahead.
“I always watched people on YouTube receive cool surprises, but I never thought it would happen to me,” Baker admitted.
Mendoza, reflecting on the experience, told 11 Alive: “His dedication and quiet strength really moved me. I felt called to do something to recognize that. I’m just grateful I got to do something for him.”
Congratulations, Mykale!
