Statistics on how many students have actually graduated are elusive. UVSC statistics indicate that about four students, including Israel, graduated with bachelor's or associate degrees in December 2006 or May 2007.

While it's unclear what future prospects undocumented graduates have of attaining legal status to use their degrees, higher education creates opportunities beyond employment, said Amanda Covington, of the Utah System of Higher Education.

College "graduates are healthier, happier, and more civically engaged as volunteers, and leaders and helpers," she said.

One recent graduate who values her education is Paulina Lagos, whose application for permanent residency was pending when she started attending the U.

Lagos, 22, came from Chile when she was 14 years old, using a tourist visa. She stayed and graduated from Bingham High School.

"So many laws had to come together, at certain times I wasn't even sure I was going to get it," said Lagos, who graduated in August 2006. "Until the last minute, I thought I'd have to move back there. ... My life is here, my family is here."

For Israel, the best hope is that Congress will pass immigration reform that will give him the ability to work legally, or that he can find another way to adjust his status. But, no matter what happens, he says "it was definitely worth it."

That's even though he remains unable, at the moment, to pursue a career. He had to work for a year after graduating from Provo High School to save for his education, and he continued working low-wage jobs, including fast food, as he studied.

"I was given this opportunity," he said. "I don't consider it worthless whatsoever. That's something nobody can take away from me. I have my degree and I have my education."

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E-mail: dbulkeley@desnews.com