Most teens graduate with one diploma. She earned three.

For most students, graduation marks the end of one academic journey. For Hailey Contreras, it marked the completion of three.

The Hesperia High School graduate crossed the stage with more than a diploma. Through dual enrollment, she also earned degrees from Chaffey College and Victor Valley College, all while balancing soccer, cross country and track and field.

Her TV and Xbox collected dust as nearly every day was packed with classes, practices and coursework.

"I find enjoyment in the stress," Hailey said. "I've always loved learning and challenging myself."

Hailey put that mindset into action through California's dual enrollment program, which allows high school students to take college courses as early as their freshman year and earn up to 11 credits per semester.

After a full day of high school classes, Hailey would head to practice before spending her evenings completing assignments for both colleges. A typical day started at 5 a.m. and ended around midnight.

The demanding schedule did more than build her résumé.

"It taught me that I'm a pretty tough cookie and I didn't crumble when it got hard," she said. "I'm ready for whatever comes. If I just keep taking one step, I'll make it out of the fog."

Hailey credits her parents with helping shape the work ethic and determination that carried her through the challenge.

"I don't think I could have gotten as far as I did without them," she said. "They built my morals so that I would have the drive and ambition I have today, even when the days got hard."

Watch the video above to see Hailey's incredible balancing act!

Humankind is your go-to spot for good news! Click here to submit your uplifting, cute, or inspiring video moments for us to feature. Also, click here to subscribe to our newsletter bringing our top stories of the week straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Most teens graduate with one diploma. She earned three.

Reporting by Ronnie Li, USA TODAY / USA TODAY

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

Copyright Reuters or USA Today Network via Reuters Connect

This story was originally published July 12, 2026 at 2:43 PM.