When most high school seniors toss their graduation caps, the only thing on their minds is where to celebrate. But 18-year-old Mykale Baker had different plans, ones that landed him in a Burger King drive-thru window still wearing his cap, gown, and medal.
And what happened next? Let’s just say his quiet dedication didn’t go unnoticed. It sparked a movement of kindness that changed his life.
Just hours after receiving his diploma, Baker realized his coworkers were short-staffed for the evening rush. So, he did what few would even consider: he drove straight from the graduation ceremony to clock in at his part-time job, still dressed in all his regalia.
“He was so kind, so polite,” said Maria Mendoza, a mother who had just watched her own daughter graduate earlier that night. She stopped by that Burger King for a late dinner and was stunned to see Mykale behind the counter, beaming with joy and wiping down trays.
“Radiating joy, even after such a big day. His dedication and quiet strength really moved me. I felt called to do something to recognize that.”
So, without saying a word to Mykale, Mendoza quietly set up a GoFundMe page. The photo of the freshly graduated teen working the drive-thru tugged at thousands of hearts across the country. Within days, $20,000 poured in. Then $50,000. And now?
That total has skyrocketed to $187,000, enough to fund nearly any dream school he chooses. And that’s not all. The Burger King Foundation also awarded Baker a $10,000 scholarship to help fuel his college journey.
“He doesn’t even know his story went viral,” Mendoza shared on the GoFundMe page. “But thousands of people were moved by his dedication, humility, and work ethic.”
Among the messages attached to donations were notes of encouragement from strangers:
“Mykale, your work ethic and grind is contagious. We are rooting for you and investing in your future.”
— A first-generation graduate from Fresno
“I truly applaud your integrity, it’s not always easy to do the right thing, and I’m glad the world is recognizing you for it.”
Before all this, Baker had been considering joining the military to help cover tuition. Now, thanks to a community of inspired strangers and one very observant mom, the young Georgia grad has a nearly $200,000 head start toward college.
And Mendoza? She just hopes people will remember this:
“Pay attention when teens are putting in the extra miles. Honor that hard work if you can.”
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