Mykale Baker, an 18-year-old from Dacula, Georgia, captured national attention when he showed up to his Burger King shift still wearing his graduation gown—just hours after receiving his high school diploma from Mill Creek High School. He said he wanted to support his short-staffed team, even on such a major day in his life.
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A customer, Maria Mendoza, recorded the moment and posted it to TikTok, where it quickly went viral with millions of views. Moved by Baker’s dedication, Mendoza started a GoFundMe campaign titled “From Burger King to College: A Dream”, which has since raised over $190,000 to help fund his college education.
NEW: Fundraiser for Georgia teen who went to Burger King after graduation tops $130K — and still rising
Baker, 18, had just graduated from Mill Creek High School hours earlier
He picked up a shift at the Burger King in Dacula, Georgia, on May 21 after noticing a late-night rush… pic.twitter.com/TUcHlSgQIx
In addition to the community support, the Burger King Foundation awarded Baker a $10,000 scholarship in recognition of his hard work and inspiring story. Mendoza’s daughter, who helped promote the campaign, also received a $10,000 scholarship from the foundation.
Congrats to Mykale Baker on a $10,000 scholarship from the BK Foundation! His work ethic at the Burger King in Dacula, GA, and viral TikTok moment captured hearts. Maria Mendoza's GoFundMe has raised over $187K! Truly inspiring! Way to go, Mykale! 🌟 #BKScholar#ViralGradpic.twitter.com/6WQWEmoabD
Baker had initially planned to take a gap year due to financial challenges but now hopes to attend college this fall and pursue a career in automotive technology.
