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Grad Series

At the end of each fall and spring semester, a special group of students are chosen to take part in the Graduation Series - a collection of inspiring success stories that showcase the incredible journeys of those who have overcome adversities while pursuing their university degrees. Through this series, we get a glimpse into how UHCL has stayed true to its motto of providing an education that empowers students to achieve their dreams and reach their full potential. These stories serve as a reminder that with hard work, dedication, and the right support, anything is possible.


Recent UHCL Graduate, Lisset Fernandez

Lisset Fernandez's journey to becoming a school psychologist

Lisset Fernandez is poised to transform her passion into a promising career after recently earning her  Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Behavioral Analysis

Recent UHCL Graduate, Alexis Staropoli

Charting a Path of Discovery and Achievement at UHCL

Alexis Staropoli began her academic journey at University of Houston- Clear Lake (UHCL) in 2020, initially majoring in computer science and engineering.

Jordan Jewell photo outside of HCA Clear Lake

Student lands internship at HCA Houston Healthcare in Clear Lake

Internships are a vital way for college students to gain entry-level work experience in their field of study. Over the years, many students from University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) have taken advantage of these opportunities.

Nayeli Romero

UHCL grad aims to help bilingual students succeed

Many students encounter their first significant school challenges as teens, but Nayeli Romero experienced hers at the age of 7 when she and her family moved to the United States from Mexico. 

Millicent Hendrix

UHCL graduate honored as fall 2023 commencement speaker

After working as an elementary school teacher for five years, University of Houston- Clear Lake (UHCL) senior Valeria Garcia is graduating this fall with a Master of Arts in Human Resource Management.

Valeria Garcia

From teacher to HR: How Valeria found her calling amidst challenges

After working as an elementary school teacher for five years, University of Houston- Clear Lake (UHCL) senior Valeria Garcia is graduating this fall with a Master of Arts in Human Resource Management.

Liz Rodriguez

UHCL graduate shares journey of overcoming fears to achieve dreams

Learning a second language can be challenging, but imagine being a 7-year-old child forced to learn a second language after moving more than 1,000 miles from home. That 7-year-old was Lizjalet Rodriguez. 

Dipal and Ravi, siblings

Breaking barriers together: Siblings earn doctoral degrees from UHCL

In a rare feat, siblings Dipal Brahmbhatt-Parekh and Ravi Brahmbhatt have earned their doctoral degrees in higher education administration from UHCL together. 

Mary Fraire with photo of  her kids

UHCL grad pursues counseling career to be a 'refuge' for youth

Sometimes life comes with unexpected detours and delays. This was the case for Mary Fraire, who will earn her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from University of Houston-Clear Lake this month. 

Sofia Assanmal-Pelaez

UHCL grad plans to change the world, ‘I arrived to the U.S. with a suitcase and a dream’

At 17, Sofia Assanmal-Pelaez arrived to the U.S. from Honduras with a suitcase and a dream. She's obtaining her Bachelor of Science in Psychology, aspiring to become a child life specialist. 

Samantha Nino

Against all odds: Samantha's journey of perseverance and inspiration

Samantha Nino’s journey to becoming a teacher began at age 6 and led her right to the doors of University of Houston – Clear Lake (UHCL).

Daniel Medina

UHCL first-generation college grad 'sets the standard' for his family

With his disciplined approach to achieving all his goals, University of Houston-Clear Lake senior Daniel Medina is graduating this fall with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication.

Sarah Plain pictured with her tortoise, Titanus.  Plain is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology on Dec. 9.

UHCL grad juggles responsibilities to achieve her dreams

If there is one University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) student who knows a thing or two about being selfless and juggling numerous responsibilities, it is Sarah Plain.