Amir Staten, a 17-year-old Philadelphia high school student, became viral on social media earlier this year after his mother published a video of him celebrating after being admitted to Morehouse College in Atlanta.
In an interview with CBS, the adolescent stated that he applied to multiple institutions and was overjoyed when he was accepted to Morehouse College in Atlanta, one of his top choices. Karlynne Staten, his mother, revealed that she had to videotape his reaction so she could present it to the family. The footage shows Amir speeding down the street, beaming with joy.
She noted that she was glad he is going out of Philly because even though she loves the state, it’s not safe for her son.
On getting accepted, Amir said, “You don’t have to pick a gun to be cool. You don’t have to be involved in the streets to be cool. You can go to college and get a degree and still be the coolest,” 6abc reported.
Amir is shown crying in amazement in a new video uploaded by his mother, Karlynne, after learning that his tuition at Morehouse was fully funded. He is one of 15Bonner Scholars, a community service-oriented scholarship program that will fund his four years of college.
In an interview with Good Morning America, his mother spoke about her son’s dedication. He went above and above what was expected of him during his high school years, according to him.
Amir excelled in honor roll grades while also serving as captain of the basketball team and president of his high school’s ‘Germantown Friends School’ Black Student Union. He also did more than 120 hours of community service.
The overall expense of attending Morehouse is around $51,000 per year, according to their website. This award will undoubtedly provide some financial assistance to the family.
Karlynne also looks after Amir’s twin sister and one of his little pals, whom she sponsors. She has been working three to four jobs to support her family and save for their future college expenses.
To continue receiving the scholarship at Morehouse, Amir Staten must maintain a GPA of at least 2.5 and do 10 hours of community service each week.
Staten was chosen by a panel of staff and existing Bonner Scholars at Morehouse College, according to Kevin Booker, vice president for student services and Dean of Morehouse College.
He added that “Some of those student leaders selected Amir because they see in him what’s needed to be a man of Morehouse, and eventually a Morehouse man.”
The dean also mentioned that Amir obtained the post without referencing his popular video. He said how moved he was by Amir’s reply and hopes that he will take this opportunity to join the ranks of the great men who have also attended the institution.