Most 12-year-olds are interested in video games, posting on Instagram and whatever else kids do these days. As a matter of fact, I think it’s safe to say most of us at 12 were probably busy doing kid-like things this age. Prepare to be ashamed of your 12-year-old self when you hear the story of Kevuntez King.

King, a recent graduate of Craigmont High School in Memphis, Tennessee, started working at age 12 to pay his college tuition – in it’s entirety.

Inspired by his single mother, King began selling the Sunday paper to one day pay for college. “She just taught me how to be independent like she had it, (and) she just wanted me to go get it myself,” King told Fox 59. As a three-sport athlete (golf, baseball and bowling), King maintained a 4.0 GPA and was voted Mr. Craigmont High and prom king. In and out of the classroom he was able to excel, making $200 in earnings weekly to go towards his goal.

Five years later, King’s hard work has paid off and he has paid his tuition in its entirety. This fall, King will enroll at Tennessee State University, where he plans to major in physical therapy. The future TSU tiger had advice for kids like him hoping to go to college, saying, “Make sure you surround yourself with people that’s trying to go up in life and not trying to bring you down. Just stay positive and always believe in yourself and push for it.”

Watch a report on King’s story below:

We are extremely proud of King, and as a proud alum of the Tennessee State University, I welcome you to the Land of Golden Sunshine. Big Blue!

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