Cool Kid Nubia Jackson creates positive change

Our ABC7 Cool Kid for Thursday, June 19, is Yale-bound Nubia Jackson who isn't afraid of a challenge.

She's had more than her fair share in life, but they've put her on a path to success.

A tumultuous family situation resulted in her living in motels and constantly moving around. Some nights, she slept in cars and vacant houses.

She was later placed in foster care. Then finally, Jackson was taken in by other family members.

She got through it all by looking forward. She dreams of becoming a novelist and having kids.

"Also, the support of my family. My aunt and uncle have been very instrumental in pushing me," Jackson said.

All her hard work paid off. Jackson not only got into Yale University, she received a full scholarship!

Yet, Jackson still finds time to give back. She tutors young students as a way of paying it forward.

"It will be like a chain really, like a domino effect. But a good kind of domino effect, because there'll be change. There'll be positive change in our community," Jackson said.

She wants others to know if they are going through a tough time, they're not alone.

"Despite your circumstances, despite anything you've went through, your past, things you may not have had control over, anything that has happened, that does not have to deter you from where you want to go," Jackson said.

It's been a difficult journey for Jackson, but her hard work and dedication impresses just about everyone she meets.

"She's triumphed over a virtual index of American urban problems. And yet she's done it with grace, grit and humor," teacher Richard Boling said.

Watch Nubia Jackson's story above.