Homeless Teen Triumphs Over Adversity, Wins Full Scholarship to Washington University
"It was work every single day except for Fridays, and then it was all throughout the week until Saturday. I opened and closed at both my jobs," Perez said. He managed his busy schedule using his phone to track commitments and deadlines.
Binye-lum 
Makoa Perez, a homeless high school student, has defied the odds to graduate with honors and secure a full scholarship to Washington University in the United States. Despite living in a shelter and working two jobs, Perez maintained a 3.97 GPA and earned numerous college credits while attending Kelso High School in Washington.
Perez’s remarkable academic performance earned him a full scholarship during his senior year. Throughout high school, he worked six days a week, often opening and closing shifts, and volunteered in his limited free time. Perez also served as class president, showcasing his leadership and dedication.
"It was work every single day except for Fridays, and then it was all throughout the week until Saturday. I opened and closed at both my jobs," Perez said. He managed his busy schedule using his phone to track commitments and deadlines.
At one of his jobs, Perez excelled to the point of becoming a supervisor, managing a team with varying schedules and responsibilities. His resilience and determination to provide for himself drove him to juggle both school and work.
Perez received assistance from the McKinney-Vento homeless shelter program, which provided him with housing and stability during his high school years. As he looks forward to college, he anticipates a less hectic experience without the need to work multiple jobs to support himself.
