"I left everything behind — my family, friends, my country — but I knew it was for a better life."

These were the words of graduate Yurityi Abadilla Mendez, whose Conquer Address delivered in both English and Spanish brought cheers of encouragement from the crowd gathered at Cabrillo High School ’s football field Thursday afternoon.

As one of 205 graduating seniors, Abadilla Mendez’s story of courage and triumph after immigrating to the United States to pursue her education, set the tone for a powerful and emotional commencement ceremony.

"I didn't know the language, and I was a year older than everyone else," she said. "I didn't think I belonged. But I kept going. And now I stand here, proud of myself — because I am fulfilling my dream."

She encouraged her classmates to hold tight t

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