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While most high school graduates were celebrating with friends and family, 18-year-old Mykale Baker was taking a different path — one fueled by hard work and determination.
Just hours after walking across the stage at Mills Creek High School in Georgia, Mykale, still wearing his graduation stole and medals, clocked in for his shift at the local Burger King.
The moment caught the eye of Maria Mendoza, a fellow graduate and mother, who snapped a photo that quickly went viral — turning Mykale’s story into an inspiring symbol of dedication and resilience.
“Determination Looks Like This”
On the night of May 21, around 10 PM, Maria Mendoza spotted something unforgettable at the Burger King drive-thru window. Having just celebrated her own daughter’s graduation from Mills Creek High School, she recognized the familiar scene—but this time, it was a young man, Mykale Baker, still dressed in his graduation stole and medals, quietly working instead of celebrating.
“While many graduates were out enjoying their night with friends and family, one young man showed the world what true determination looks like,” Mendoza shared on her GoFundMe page.
Moved by Mykale’s calm dedication and the joy shining through his hard work, Mendoza recorded a short 20-second TikTok video. That clip has since touched over 3.9 million hearts worldwide.
“He wasn’t doing it for attention. In fact, he had no idea his story had gone viral. But thousands of people were inspired by his humility, grit, and work ethic,” she added.
Viral Video Ignites a Wave of Community Support
Maria Mendoza wasn’t just impressed — she was deeply inspired. After sharing Mykale’s story online, she launched a GoFundMe campaign to help him pursue his college dreams. The response was overwhelming.
By the morning of May 31, the fundraiser had soared past $115,000, skyrocketing from an initial $22,000 in just a few days. The goal? To cover Mykale’s tuition, textbooks, supplies, and any other costs needed to support his education.
“Let’s come together as a community and lift this young man up,” the campaign urged. “Let’s show him that the world sees his hard work—and is cheering him on.”
Messages of encouragement poured in:
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“Congratulations, Mykale, on your graduation! Your dedication and positive spirit are truly inspiring.”
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“Keep being GREAT at everything you set your mind to!”
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“You’re an inspiration without even knowing it. Stay true to your values and chase your dreams. Congratulations and God bless your future.”
From Surprise to Opportunity
Unaware of the incredible attention his story had garnered, Mykale was stunned when Mendoza returned to Burger King on May 26 with news of the fundraising success. Overcome with emotion, he broke down in tears.
In a heartfelt TikTok, Mykale thanked Mendoza and his mother with warm embraces.
“Thank you all so much,” he said. “I was thinking about taking a gap year because I didn’t have money for school, but now, thanks to you, I might go straight to technical college and pursue my mechanical degree.”
“I never thought something like this would happen to me. I’m really grateful,” he added.
A Life Changed — and a Bright Future Ahead
What began as a quiet night shift turned into a life-changing moment for Mykale, who had once worried that financial challenges would delay his education.
“I always watched videos of people getting amazing surprises, but I never thought it would happen to me,” he admitted.
Reflecting on the journey, Mendoza told 11 Alive, “His dedication and quiet strength truly moved me. I felt called to do something to honor that. I’m just thankful I could play a part.”
Congratulations, Mykale — your hard work and humility have inspired thousands, and the best is yet to come.
