Boy Who Did His Homework Under McDonald’s Lights Is Now Scholar of Fast-Food Chain
The boy who once did his homework under McDonald’s lights is now a scholar of the same fast-food chain.
Many people may still remember the young boy whose photo went viral after he was seen doing his homework under the lights outside a McDonald’s restaurant. Eleven years later, Daniel Cabrera returned to the same place, this time as a college student and a member of the restaurant staff.
In June 2015, Daniel was a nine-year-old Grade 3 student at Subangdaku Elementary School in Mandaue City, Cebu. The story caught public attention after Joyce Torrefranca, a student at Cebu Doctors’ University, took a photo of him studying outside McDonald’s along the North Reclamation Area.
Daniel and his family had to stay near a local food stall after a fire destroyed their home. Since they had no electricity, the young boy would study outside the fast-food restaurant, using its lights to read and finish his homework.
Following the attention, McDonald’s Philippines offered Daniel a scholarship that covered his basic education from kindergarten to Grade 12, along with a monthly allowance for his school needs.
Other people and organizations also helped by providing school supplies and financial assistance.
Despite the support, Daniel remained committed to his studies. He finished elementary school in 2019 and later graduated from high school with honors.
Now 20 years old, Daniel is pursuing a degree in Hospitality Management at Benedicto College. He also works as a service crew member at the same McDonald’s branch where he once studied outside.
Balancing college and work is not easy, but Daniel continues to work toward his goals while helping his family. He also hopes to pursue his childhood dream of joining law enforcement someday.
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