In spring 2014, Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Earl Mitchell finished his bachelor degree after leaving the University of Arizona in 2010 to join the NFL. Mitchell never lost sight of his college education and would return for the past three off seasons in order to finish his bachelor degree in general studies. The story as it appears on the commencement website for the University of Arizona can be found here.

Earl Mitchell, 27, a defensive tackle for the Miami Dolphins, sits at the University of Arizona Old Main with his mom Lisa Hearron, sister Sekayla Watts and brother-in-law Eric Watts before his college convocation, getting a degree in general studies. Photograph by john de Dios

Earl Mitchell, 27, a defensive tackle for the Miami Dolphins is interviewed by UA News about his inspirations and reasons for completing his degree. Photograph by John de Dios

Earl Mitchell, 27, a defensive tackle for the Miami Dolphins, participates in senior photo day with some of the Arizona Wildcats Football team. Photograph by John de Dios

Earl Mitchell, 27, a defensive tackle for the Miami Dolphins, participates in senior photo day with some of the Arizona Wildcats Football team. Photograph by John de Dios