"The Blessing in the Struggle" was the theme for this year’s College Day.

Sabrin Said, 20, programming committee head, said she felt the event would "help students recognize that life and school are about struggles, and every effort exerted has its rewards and benefits."

The day was broken up into three categories — mentoring sessions, workshops and main sessions.

This year’s College Day also included the "The People of Color" tour, where mentors and students explored various UCLA locations and learned about their historical significance.

Mentors were trained to provide the essential guidance needed during the day’s activities, which included a blindfold race, discussing personal struggles, and developing leadership skills and receiving academic counseling.

"Mentor sessions are a space where students can talk openly about issues they face, whether it be identity issues or dealing with parents," said Dina Mehmood, College Day head.

"It also exposes them to the importance of higher education and how to think critically about themselves."

Crowds of students packed the halls during main sessions, one of which was led by MPAC Communications Director Edina Lekovic.

"We must find ways to identify ourselves, because in the end, we ultimately tell our own stories," she said.

Students were also able to choose from a wide variety of workshops to attend.

Topics included racism, time management and law school.

Jay Phelan, professor of genetics in the Life Sciences Department at UCLA, discussed the importance of research and how it can be an alternative for those interested in the medical field.

"A lot of kids think that in order to like science, they have to be a doctor. Research is another great way to explore your passion for science — you’re asking important questions that can change the world."

UCLA students also led workshops — like Omar Iqbal and Jaffar Baday, who discussed their Hajj experience.

"It was life-changing. Once you go, you don’t return the same," Baday said as he and Iqbal discussed the various procedures that take place during Hajj.

Well-known poet and free verse artist Gaith Adhami left audience members in awe during the evening entertainment session.

"My guardian — what can I say to the one who’s beauty and wisdom are manifested in all things. I write only to take notes, I am your student who has slept too much in class," he read.

Scholarships were also given for essays submitted before the event. The first prize winner, Lubaba Khan, won $500 for her essay about the topic, "What does ‘Blessing in the Struggle’ mean to you?"

MSA President Naqib Shifa expressed how MSA members have always felt a need to give back to the community. "Given the numerous blessings Allah has given us, it is incumbent upon us to give back to the youth. We were once in their position, thus it should not be considered a favor but rather a responsibility to set the foundation for their futures."

More than 175 students attended the event.

College Day began in 2000 as part of MAPS, one of MSA-UCLA’s volunteer projects.