A single mom's viral TikTok captures the joy of passing the bar exam with her kids

When single mom Rhiannah Gordon learned she had passed the California bar exam on her first try, her raw, emotional reaction didn't just resonate — it became a viral sensation.

In a TikTok video that has racked up over 24 million views since it was posted on Nov. 9, Gordon refreshes the results page, her son Flinn, 12, leans close to her, his sweatshirt pulled over his mouth, while her daughter Rhiley, 10, standing next to them, nervously awaiting the result. “Stressing me out,” she joked in the video about Rhiley's tears before the results even loaded.

As soon as “pass” appeared on the screen, it was pure, unfiltered joy. Gordon screamed, “We did it!” while her children, who stood by her through every late-night study session and every sacrifice, burst into tears of joy themselves. The video is a beautiful glimpse into a family that together overcame years of challenges, dreams and tireless hard work to make this moment a reality.

@yougonloverhi I passed!!!! #barexam #barexam2024 #lawyer #blackattorney #singlemom #singlemomlife #singlemomsoftiktok #lawyer #blacklawyer #blacklawyers #blacklawyersoftiktok #joy #blackgirlmagic #blackmoms #blackmomsoftiktok #lawyerbae #shedidit #ididit #tearsofjoy #happytears #cabar #cabarexam #california ♬ Original sound – Ya BabyDaddy’s favorite lawyer

Gordon's success is more than a feel-good moment – it's a milestone that speaks of something much bigger. In a profession where Black women made up just 3.04% of associates (and less than 1% of partners in U.S. law firms) and single mothers face unique hurdles in higher education, Gordon's achievement is a reflection of unwavering courage, Sacrifice and determination.

As a single mother, she has to juggle the demands of raising two children while pursuing a law degree. Her journey offers hope and inspiration to others facing similar challenges. Today, she applies that resilience to criminal law in Sacramento.

In an interview with Good morning AmericaShe emphasized that this victory was not hers alone, but was a family achievement. “I have worked tirelessly for the last four years, simultaneously cooking dinner, going to training and making sure my children brush their teeth every night. And all the time we put in as a family and the sacrifices we made paid off.”

Her children weren't just spectators – they were part of the event. They're not just proud – they're inspired. They have seen firsthand the dedication with which big dreams must be pursued and achieved, and this lesson will stay with them for the rest of their lives. This shared family success story is worth celebrating.

As commenter @sun_flower0923 wrote, “The fact that they cry with you…you win.” These kids are proud of you and love you. Congratulations on the bar and congratulations on raising good people.”