Tyvion Campbell went viral after footage showed her celebrating on stage at Chicago Tech Academy’s commencement ceremony. Some social media users claimed the move amounted to twerking – a characterisation Campbell disputes.

“Honestly, I didn’t think it was a twerk,” she said. “I thought I was just doing a split.”

Campbell did not receive her diploma during the ceremony, sparking a fierce online debate over student expression and appropriate conduct at formal events.

Days later, she met school leaders and emerged with her diploma.

“No matter what, I do deserve this diploma,” she said. “I worked 12 hard, long years for this diploma.”

Campbell also apologised after the controversy reportedly led to threats against people connected to the school.

The 18-year-old said she had no regrets about celebrating her achievement, although she acknowledged some people viewed the stunt as inappropriate.

Asked what advice she would give future graduates, Campbell offered a practical lesson from her experience: “I would definitely say, make sure you get the diploma first and then do your dance.”