For Ron Austin of Fairfield, California, this year's commencement will be a moment — and degree — more than 47 years in the making. The 66-year-old is proud he has finally completed the requirements for a Bachelor of Arts in political science.

Emiliano Rosales picked up volleyball last spring year after his first two quarters at UC Davis were harder than he ever would have believed. After connecting with mentors, he discovered what he truly wanted his life to be. In his second year now, he mentors first-year students facing the same struggles he did.