Motivational speaker Eric Thomas visits Benton Harbor

BENTON HARBOR, Mich. — Students were paid a visit Thursday by someone they likely see on social media everyday.

Eric Thomas stopped by Benton Harbor High School to give his “Playbook for Students.”

Thomas, a Detroit native, has garnered millions of followers on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok for his motivational speeches.  

His message stems from being a high school dropout who became homeless, to getting his GED and graduating from Michigan State University. 

His main points while speaking to kids – the importance of both leadership and literacy.    

“The more you read, the more freedom you have – you can live where you want, do things for your family – so don’t look at school as a burden, look at it as freedom, look at it as life,” said Thomas.  

Friday – Thomas heads back to his alma mater to speak to the undefeated Spartan football team ahead of their game against Purdue.