Beyond the Cap and Gown: Dre’Leon’s Journey from College Dreams to Center Stage
When Dre’Leon Jones, known professionally as DreTL, first received the Achieve Atlanta Scholarship, his vision for the future looked quite different from where he is today.
Now a college graduate, recording artist, and the Season Two winner of Netflix’s Rhythm + Flow, his journey is a testament to the power of believing in possibilities you cannot yet see.
Finding His Direction
When Dre’Leon was a senior at Maynard H. Jackson High School, his main goal after graduation was simple: to graduate from college.
“My goals honestly were just to make it through college and earn my bachelor’s degree, because I had never seen anyone do it in my family,” he said.Â
At that point, music was just a passion, but not a plan.
Georgia State University felt like a natural fit. Already dual-enrolled during high school and deeply rooted in Atlanta, Dre’Leon chose to stay close to home. As an Achieve Atlanta Scholar, enrolling at one of the organization’s partner schools also provided a meaningful opportunity to build connections with fellow Scholars and tap into resources that support his journey toward becoming a first-generation college graduate.
He started his freshman year as a biology major while working at State Farm Arena’s JR Crickett’s thinking a full-time music career felt distant and unrealistic. Like many students, he was still discovering his potential, navigating who he was and what he might become. Dre’Leon then transitioned through the School of Media Entrepreneurship and Film Production before finally pursuing his true passion: music.
Choosing Persistence Over Shortcuts
As Dre’Leon began to develop his sound and gain traction in music, he faced a decision many young creatives encounter: should he fully pursue his passion or stay committed to his education?
For him, the answer was clear.
“When I commit to something, it’s really hard for me to quit. Being a first-generation college grad will mean so much more for my future family than music ever will,” Dre’Leon shared.Â
Balancing a full college course load, a full-time job, and an emerging music career was not easy to manage, but he never wavered. His commitment to breaking generational barriers fueled him just as much as his creative ambitions.
Dre’Leon’s college years were defined by nonstop movement, classes by day, studio sessions by night, and performances in between.
“It was extremely difficult but, it is the happiest I have ever been in my life,” he said.
That season of constant hustle helped shape both his artistry and his discipline. The long nights, early mornings, and consistent belief in himself built the foundation for what was to come.
Spotlight Moment: Rhythm + FlowÂ
During his senior year, Dre’Leon stepped onto one of the biggest stages of his life as a contestant on Netflix’s Season Two of Rhythm + Flow, filmed in Atlanta.
Guided by judges Ludacris, DJ Khaled and Latto, contestants faced intense challenges, from rap battles to high-pressure performances. Dre’Leon navigated each round while still staying on track to graduate.
“It was an unforgettable experience that was both exciting and stressful… I had to be locked in on the show but also knew I could not give up on my mission to become a first-generation graduate,” Dre’Leon shared.
Balancing production schedules with coursework requires intense focus and determination. But true to form, Dre’Leon refused to let go of either dream.
He did not just compete; he won!
His final performance of “Nobody,” produced by Hitmaka, earned unanimous praise from the judges, securing both the title and the $250,000 grand prize.
In a Netflix article, Natalie Morin noted that “Judges Ludacris, DJ Khaled, and Latto all agree that coming to a final decision was extremely difficult, but in the end, DreTL proved to offer much more than just bars.”
Dre’Leon’s first post-show performance was a full-circle moment. He performed at the sold-out Atlanta Hawks vs. Los Angeles Lakers halftime show at the State Farm Arena, just steps away from where he had been working at JR Crickets for the last five years.
Achieve Atlanta’s Role in Dre’Leon’s Success
Through every transition, Achieve Atlanta played a critical role in Dre’Leon’s success.
“Achieve Atlanta helped me out in so many ways during college. Financial support was always there and a huge help,” he said.
During one of the most challenging periods of his life, when both of his parents were incarcerated, the scholarship became more than financial aid; it was a lifeline.
“My Achieve Atlanta advisors always provided emotional and academic help when I didn’t know who else to go to,” said Dre’Leon. That support system helped him stay on track, providing stability when it mattered most.
“Overall, Achieve Atlanta played a pivotal role in me finishing college and getting my degree,” he said.
With a degree in hand and a major win behind him, Dre’Leon is just getting started.
“I will continue to be great and try to inspire as many people as possible to chase their dreams. I will definitely release another album soon!” shared the artist.
He remains focused on his creative, professional, and personal growth while using his platform to motivate others.
Advice for Future ScholarsÂ
For Achieve Atlanta Scholars juggling academics and big aspirations, Dre’Leon offers grounded wisdom rooted in his own journey:
“Remember that all things are possible through Christ who strengthens you,” he said. “Once your dreams come true, you will realize that the journey was the most important part all along.”
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