Homeless teen accepted into college on full scholarship

A Texas high school graduate who overcame adversity is headed to college on a full academic and athletic scholarship. Zaylin Washington told KTVT the odds haven't always been in her favor. While he was growing up, his parents spent stints in prison and Washington spent time in foster care. He was also bullied at school. “People were making fun of me, my clothes were torn and too big,” Washington told KTVT. In 7th grade, Washington joined the football team. In his team, he says he found a family and a support system. “I felt a lot of pressure on my shoulders and everything, like I had finally found a home,” he said of joining the team. But he still faced adversity. When he was a sophomore at Nimitz High School in Irving, Texas, Washington said he experienced homelessness — a situation he hid from his peers. Eventually, a youth group pastor offered him a place to live. After spending time in foster care, this gesture meant a lot to Washington. “It was the first time someone chose me, without being forced,” he told KTVT. With stable housing, Washington took it upon himself to focus on his education. — from an academic point of view, but also in the field. “I want to succeed more than anyone, anyone in my whole family. I wanted to finish high school, finish college. I wanted to prove them wrong,” he said. Washington received a full scholarship to River College in California. Washington said he has learned a lot of life lessons and encourages people to accept help and support when it comes. “People want to help you. It's not you against the world,” he said. To learn more about Washington's history, watch the video player above.