Richard Jenkins was bullied in class for raising his hand so often that they called him “Harvard.” Who would have known that years later, he received a scholarship from the Ivy league and is on his way there.

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Richard’s had a tough childhood – from being bullied in school, to medical emergencies, and homelessness. But these challenges only pushed him to work harder for himself, his two younger brothers, and his single mother.

In sixth grade, he lived in a shelter with his family. That’s when it hit him that academics was his way to save himself from poverty.

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“That was what triggered me that I needed to chase something,” he said in an interview. “No matter what, I can’t allow myself to go through that anymore. I can’t allow my brothers or my mother to go through that when they’re older.”

Richard studied and excelled in his classes. In his freshman year, he studied so hard that he had severe migraines which often landed him in the hospital. Despite that, he stayed on top of all his schoolwork.

His mother, Quiana Mclaughlin, encouraged him to go to Girard College, a school for gifted students from single-parent households in need. He applied when he was in the eleventh-grade and sure enough, Richard got in.

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While there, he was on top of his academics and extra-curricular activities. He even had time to start the Makers’ Space Club, where 3D printers, sewing machines, and other DIY equipment were provided for students to realize their creative ideas.

He applied to several Ivy League schools, but received the shock of his life when he saw his acceptance letter from Harvard.

In June, Richard will be graduating at the top of his class as valedictorian. He plans to study computer science with a special interest in artificial intelligence. The 18-year-old was also given a full, need-based scholarship as well as stipend for room and board.

His godfather, Donald Kinsey Jr., wanted to help him out by creating a GoFundMe page to help him buy the things he needs for college – new clothes and a tablet computer. Though Kinsey said that even though Richard can pay his way through college and work hard for himself, he deserves a reward, and that’s why he started this campaign.

Richard has only one message for the kids who are struggling but have big dreams:
“There’s going to be times when you’ll stumble off the track or think you don’t want to continue,” he said, “but as long as you stick to the plan, you’ll be fine.”

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