Global pop star Olivia Rodrigo secretly helped a University of Alabama student graduate by contributing $5,000 toward her final semester of tuition.
Videos by Wide Open Country
Jamie Causey, who recently graduated from the university with a degree in public relations, revealed the heartwarming gesture on Tuesday.
Causey, 21, explained that Rodrigo quietly helped cover her college costs, with the interaction remaining private for more than a year.
Olivia Rodrigo Secretly Helped Student Pay Tuition
The unlikely connection between Rodrigo and Causey began in early 2025.
The pop star initially sent Causey birthday wishes before reaching out again after seeing a video in which the student discussed struggling to cover her tuition costs.
Causey shared a screenshot of their conversation on TikTok, which appeared to show Rodrigo offering to help.
"Hi girl! I know you don't know me but I love your videos so much, you seem like the kindest coolest gal and you are such a source of positivity and light in my life!"
"I watched ur last vid about tuition and I'd love to help out if you were open at all to that? So cool that you are so close to graduating! Do you have a Venmo I could send to?"
Causey's undergraduate tuition at the University of Alabama reportedly cost $5,959 per semester.
Student Left Stunned by $5,000 Gesture
Causey understandably did not expect to receive such a generous offer from the Grammy-winning singer.
"Oh my god, hi! I love your music so much, I am so sorry TikTok filtered your message and didn't show it so me until now. I'm actually about to cry," Causey responded.
"I do have a Venmo. I haven't shared it publicly because I realize it's not others fault that I chose to go to college. Honestly your music has been a source of strength for me and I just keep thinking this is a dream."
Causey insisted that Rodrigo did not have to contribute but admitted that she was "willing to accept any help".
The 21-year-old also shared a follow-up message she received from a member of Rodrigo's team in April 2025, confirming that the singer had sent $5,000 toward her education.
Causey chose to keep the exchange private for more than a year because she wanted to protect what the personal gesture meant to her.
Now that she has graduated, she hopes Rodrigo's act of generosity can inspire others to spread some kindness of their own.
"Send the message, pay for the coffee, pay for the car behind you or just smile at someone," she said. "You never know the difference it will make."
