LOS ANGELES — It’s been quite the tumultuous end of the year for USC students, who graduated this week. Instead of a traditional commencement, USC held a “Trojan Family Graduate Celebration” with drone shows, fireworks, surprise performances, the Trojan Marching Band and a special gift just for the class of 2024.

After protests broke out at USC, UCLA and campuses across the country, USC cancelled its main commencement ceremony. Still, students say this day is special and that they’re ready for the next chapter of their lives.