Skylar Calhoun insists he is no different from anyone else, although those that know him beg to differ. Calhoun was homeless at 16, but he has overcome peer pressure and lack of family support to inspire and impact the students of the University of Oklahoma.
"It's very tough for homeless teens. It's traditional that you have a
support system of your family and your parents, and when you're not
given that, it's really tough," said Calhoun.
Calhoun did receive support from Bridges in Norman, Oklahoma, a nonprofit organization that provides housing for homeless high school students at an affordable cost. Debra Krittenbrink, executive director of Bridges, says 80% of the teens housed at Bridges go on to pursue a higher education. According to a survey conducted by public schools in Cleveland County, 357 children were identified as homeless in the past year. However, these students can be tough to find because most are embarrassed by their homeless status, says Krittenbrink. Calhoun agrees.
"It's nerve wracking to think that someone could think less of me because I was homeless," said Calhoun.
At OU though, no one thinks less of Calhoun--he is held in high regard.
"I've been constantly impressed with Skylar, constantly impressed," said Darci Lambeth, Calhoun's adviser for the President's Community Scholars (PCS). PCS is a freshmen organization dedicated to engaging students with a passion for community service. From studying civil engineering to serving as a student worker at Cate Center to becoming involved within the Leadership Development and Volunteerism office on campus, Calhoun has earned the respect and admiration of his peers and his superiors. At the last PCS meeting, Calhoun was even voted "Most Inspiring" by his fellow scholars.
Watch below as Calhoun goes about his daily life as a student, a student leader and a student worker.
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