Because of this, Rivas often either chose not to go on stage to be recognized or asked the parents of his friends to stand in for his own. This time, things felt even more personal.
In a heartfelt Facebook post, Rivas shared the experience. He began with hope that someone from his family might appear—but that hope soon faded into sadness.
He quietly stepped away from the celebration for a moment of solitude. After gathering himself, he returned to the ceremony, determined to finish with grace.
Rivas explained that he had supported himself through a variety of jobs, as his pursuit of higher education wasn’t embraced at home. He had worked in a factory,
As a janitor, and at a fast-food restaurant, all while striving to complete his studies. As he prepared to cross the stage alone, emotions overwhelmed him—but he remained composed.
