A determined 19-year-old homeless boy, Jeremiah Armstead has fought his way to clinch a spot at Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee, the United States despite facing the challenges of being homeless.

Jeremiah Armstead was a high school student when he moved to California with his mother, brother, and sister. They lived in cars and domestic violence shelters throughout his high school education at the Long Beach Polytechnic High School in California.

His challenges saw him make a decision to use his adversity as fuel and motivation to strive for success. He worked hard both academically and as a basketball player. After three years of being homeless with his family, Jeremiah Armstead finally got accepted to Fisk University.

“That’s all I needed. That’s all I ever needed in life was a chance’” Armstead said, according to the outlet. “I just want to show people that’s in my circumstances like ‘don’t stop.’ Don’t ever think of giving up because just like that, stuff could change,” he added.

While staying at his friend’s house, Jeremiah Armstead’s mother, Mindy Brooks excitedly shared the news of Jeremiah’s acceptance to the university and also as a member of the university’s basketball team.

“I’m not surprised Jeremiah is where he’s at today. I’m not surprised because he’s always been a good person,” she told the outlet.

Jeremiah was able to attend High School with the support of organizations such as We Educate Brilliant Minds and Sisters of Watts. He narrated that it was tough for him to be homeless and juggle everything to emerge successful.

“I was bringing smarts, of course, but it was hard to do that being homeless and juggling everything, like domestic violence situations, just stuff like that. Living in a shelter, living in a car–it was hard to think, go to school, worry about my mom or my brother, my sister.” he said.

The teen who is now a member of the Fisk University men’s basketball team will be working with former LA Clippers basketball player Kenneth Anderson, who is the head coach. Anderson said he was impressed by the teen’s demeanour and work ethic, which he felt would make him the right fit for the team.

Jeremiah Armstead will embark on majoring in Kinesiology and playing for Fisk University’s men’s basketball team.