Robin Roberts has become a household name as one of the most respected co-anchors on Good Morning America, a role she has held for nearly two decades.
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Her ability to deliver news with warmth and professionalism has endeared her to millions of viewers.
However, before she ever stepped in front of a television camera, Roberts had a much different job—one that may surprise many of her fans.
In a recently shared video, Roberts revealed that her very first job was working as a school bus driver during her senior year of high school.
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At just 18 years old, she took on the responsibility of transporting students, including her own classmates, in her hometown of Pass Christian, Mississippi.
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How Robin Roberts Became a School Bus Driver
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While it may seem unusual for a high school senior to take on such a major responsibility, Roberts explained that the opportunity came about due to her involvement in sports. As an active member of her school’s tennis team, she and her teammates frequently faced cancellations due to a shortage of drivers. Determined to find a solution, her tennis coach suggested that she obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and become the team’s designated driver.
Roberts didn’t just drive the tennis team to matches; she also stepped up as a substitute driver whenever the school district needed extra help. Because Pass Christian was a small community, the district occasionally required backup drivers when regular ones were unavailable. Roberts gladly took on the role, picking up students in the mornings and ensuring they arrived at school safely.
Driving Classmates to School: A Unique Experience
Imagine stepping onto a school bus and finding one of your classmates behind the wheel. That was the reality for Roberts’ peers, and she recalls their reactions as being priceless. Many of them couldn’t believe that their friend was the one responsible for getting them to school.
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Reflecting on the experience, Roberts expressed her admiration for school bus drivers, acknowledging the important role they play in students’ daily lives. “School bus drivers rule!” she said, highlighting how much she respected the position after having done it herself.
Fans React to the Unexpected News
When Roberts shared her first-job experience, fans were quick to express their amazement and appreciation in the comments section. Many praised her for taking on such a major responsibility at a young age, with some even sharing their own experiences as school bus drivers.
One fan wrote, “No way, Robin was a school bus driver? That’s awesome!” while another added, “You go, girl! That’s still an important job.” Others reminisced about their own time behind the wheel of a school bus, proving that Roberts’ story resonated with many people.
From Small-Town Roots to National Television
Roberts’ journey from a small-town school bus driver to a national television icon is nothing short of inspiring. Born in Tuskegee, Alabama, and raised in Pass Christian, Mississippi, she grew up excelling in both academics and athletics. She played basketball and tennis throughout high school before attending Southeastern Louisiana University, where she graduated cum laude in 1983 with a degree in communication.
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Her broadcasting career began that same year when she became a sports anchor and reporter for WDAM-TV in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. She later worked at several television stations before joining ESPN in 1990. Roberts became a featured reporter on Good Morning America in 1995, and by 2005, she had secured her place as a co-anchor of the beloved morning show.
A Story of Determination and Hard Work
Roberts’ first job as a school bus driver is a testament to her work ethic and sense of responsibility—qualities that have undoubtedly contributed to her success. Her ability to embrace challenges head-on, whether behind the wheel of a school bus or in front of a television camera, has made her one of the most respected journalists in the industry.
Her story serves as an inspiration, proving that no matter where one starts, perseverance and dedication can lead to incredible achievements. Fans who admire her today as a seasoned news anchor can now appreciate the unique journey that brought her to where she is now.
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