A person’s early 20s is usually the time when they begin their career in whatever field they’re in. But while his peers are still taking home starting salaries, Youtuber David Dobrik is making the big bucks already. And it’s all thanks to the Internet. Here’s his inspiring success story.

Immigrant Story

Instagram | Dobrik grew up in Chicago, where he attended Vernon Hills High School

Like many other American immigrants, Dobrik’s story began overseas. His family hails from the Central European country of Slovakia. Along with his parents and three siblings, he moved to the United States at just six years old. He’s actually protected under the Deferred Action For Childhood Arrivals (DACA) from being deported from the country.

After high school, the Internet star was given two choices by his parents. He could either follow the usual path of going to college or he could start living on his own if he doesn’t. He chose the latter and found himself with a group of friends in Los Angeles, where they reportedly survived living on bread and peanut butter. This unideal situation would soon change, though.

Discovering Vine

Insider | Dobrik was one of Vine’s biggest stars before he moved on to another platform. Vine has since discontinued its service

Dobrik later found Vine, a popular app where people can create and share loops of six-second videos, usually with humorous themes. He ended up earning up to $2,000 a month by simply uploading sports clips on the platform.

The real fame and money came with creating his own original content, though. He even became a part of a group called the Vlog Squad with other popular Vine users like vlogger-turned-singer Gabbie Hanna and ‘Drake and Josh’ actor Josh Peck.

Moving on to Vlogging

Architectural Digest | Dobrik in his $2.5 million home in Los Angeles

After some time on Vine, he made the move to YouTube in 2015, following the example of his fellow creators. Looking back at this time, Dobrik says that he was just vlogging for his own enjoyment. He transferred full-time to YouTube when Vine shut down a year later.

The Internet sensation currently has a combined 20 million followers on the platform and has accumulated an estimated fortune of $7 million. What’s more, his online success has also translated to larger gigs, such as a hosting stint at the Teen Choice Awards.