CHICAGO— In a controversial turn of events, 21-year-old university student Tim Johnson is facing fierce backlash from his peers after being accused of “flaunting” his underprivileged status in an attempt to gain sympathy, admiration, and—critics allege—“a few extra crumbs of campus attention.”

Johnson, who is known for wearing tattered shoes and using a second-hand laptop that frequently overheats during lectures, has come under fire after his friend’s latest social media post, which featured a picture of Johnson’s “vintage” backpack.

“I don’t know why he needs to make such a spectacle of it,” said Rebecca Miller, a fellow student who attends Johnson’s economics class. “It’s like he’s trying to make his financial struggles some kind of trendy accessory. We get it, Tim, you’re poor. But can’t you stop your friend from posting a photo of your backpack?”

Johnson’s friend’s recent Instagram stories have further fueled the controversy, with one post showing both of them eating a “two-for-one” microwaved meal from a local supermarket.

“Honestly, I think he’s just looking for pity,” said Jared Watanabe, a student in the same cohort. “There are plenty of people here struggling, but Tim’s the only one acting like it’s some kind of badge of honor. It’s dispiriting to watch.”

In response to the accusations, Johnson insists that his posts aren’t about seeking attention. “People need to understand that poverty isn’t some abstract thing,” he explained. “It’s real, and it’s hard. Sometimes, I am in group photos. Is that so wrong?”

Despite his defense, Johnson’s attempts at explanation have been met with harsh criticism, with some suggesting that he should “tone down the humility” and focus more on blending in with the rest of the student body.

“I’m just trying to survive,” Johnson concluded, as his phone ran out of battery again.