The Tom Joyner Foundation has awarded Helms, 19, a $1,500
Hercules Scholarship to use toward books, tuition and on-campus living
expenses. The scholarship is designed to encourage young men to complete their
degree programs, in order to pursue a career field that will provide a better
quality of life for others.
Helms, a freshman, is the fifth student to receive the
scholarship this month in conjunction with the university’s recognition as the
Tom Joyner Foundation “School of the Month.” He was awarded the scholarship on
today’s airing of the “Tom Joyner Morning Show.”
“I may not be the smartest person or best player, but I work
hard,” said Helms, who majors in mechanical engineering. “With my life, I want
to let people know that there is no way around hard work. If they work hard,
and do everything they can, they can make it happen. If you do the best you
can, you know you have succeeded.”
According to Helms, his resolve and resilience are rooted in
his faith in God.
“My faith is always first,” he said. “I try to do everything
for an audience of one – God. It was the way I was raised. I was raised to do
the best in everything I do and to know that success doesn’t depend on the
amount of money you make, it depends on if you gave everything you’ve got, so
that you have no regrets.”
The Hercules Scholarship is awarded to male students at
historically black colleges and universities, who exhibit leadership skills,
are active in the community and maintain at least a 3.5 GPA.
As a part of the School of the Month recognition, the Tom
Joyner Foundation will partner with FAMU throughout the year in a fundraiser
that serves to challenge FAMU alumni and supporters to make record-breaking
donations toward providing more scholarships to deserving students.