Terra, the 22-year-old student whose emotional account of starting school without stable housing went viral online, has returned to social media to thank supporters and respond to speculation that followed her sudden rise to visibility.
Known online as @theoilkeyper, Terra posted a message on Instagram expressing gratitude to followers after several days of stepping back from public platforms. Her earlier posts, which described being enrolled in school while experiencing homelessness, resonated widely and sparked donations, prayers, and intense public discussion.
“I’ve been quiet because social media, and the thoughts of being seen got out of hand,” Terra wrote. “I’m coming on here to thank y’all.”
In a video accompanying the post, Terra said she was overwhelmed by the scale of attention her story received. She confirmed that she remains enrolled in school and said she plans to share more detailed updates through longer-form videos on YouTube.
Addressing rumors and online criticism
As her story spread, Terra became the subject of online speculation, including claims that she followed a man to Texas or misrepresented her circumstances. In her video, she directly addressed those allegations, saying they were based on misunderstandings.
She clarified that references she made to “he” in earlier posts were spiritual, not romantic.
“I don’t have a boyfriend,” Terra said. “The only ‘He’ I have is Him,” referring to her Christian faith.
She also used the moment to speak more broadly about homelessness in the United States, emphasizing that escaping housing insecurity is often far more complicated than outsiders assume. Lack of identification, documentation, and access to resources, she said, can trap people in unstable situations even when they are actively trying to improve their lives.
“Homelessness in America—it’s not as easy to just go and get off the street,” she said.
Setting boundaries amid public attention
While thanking supporters for donations, encouragement, and prayers, Terra said she is learning to set boundaries as she navigates sudden public attention. She acknowledged that not all responses have been supportive but said she is focused on honesty and self-preservation.
“I don’t have to lie,” she said. “I don’t have anything to hide—aside from personal information nobody on here needs to know.”
Terra added that she hopes to use her platform to answer questions, offer encouragement, and share advice, while also protecting her own mental and emotional health.
How her story went viral
Terra’s experience first gained national attention after ShineMyCrown.com published a story titled “I Start School Tomorrow But I Have No Home: A 22-Year-Old Student’s Plea for Stability Goes Viral.” The article highlighted the growing issue of student homelessness and how Terra’s candid testimony struck a chord with thousands of readers.
In her latest update, Terra said she plans to remain active on TikTok and YouTube, where she will provide updates on her education, housing situation, and personal journey.
“I’m excited to take y’all on this journey,” she said. “God is real.”
