A University of Kentucky student who suffered critical injuries in a car accident during her junior year will graduate this weekend with two degrees, a milestone she once feared would be impossible.

Amber Mandhyan, a Gatton College of Business and Economics student from Bloomington, Illinois, was a passenger in a Lyft accident at the start of her junior year, suffering a life-threatening injury that required emergency surgery. The crash left her unable to walk for months and unable to speak due to major facial trauma and extensive dental work. She also sustained a traumatic brain injury and post-concussion syndrome.

"In an instant, my entire life changed," Mandhyan said, according to the University of Kentucky News.

What sustained her through the recovery was not just personal resilience, but the support of the UK community. When her family reached out to Gatton College, faculty and staff responded immediately, helping her complete coursework remotely and managing logistical challenges. Even classmates she had never spoken to sent notes and explanations of course material to help her keep pace.

"I remember coming back after one of my surgeries and missing class," Mandhyan recalled. "Before I could even ask, someone I had never even spoken to went out of their way to send me their notes, explain what we covered and made sure I did not fall behind."

Mandhyan gradually returned to in-person classes the following semester, moving forward "one step at a time" through ongoing medical appointments and physical challenges. Though she still faces cognitive difficulties and chronic migraines from her trauma, she persevered through the remainder of her college career.

This weekend, Mandhyan will receive a Bachelor of Science in accounting and a Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing at UK's May 2026 commencement, held Friday and Saturday at Rupp Arena. She credited her success to the faculty, advisors and Dean Sheather of Gatton College who provided accommodations and encouragement during her recovery.

Her advice to other students facing adversity is straightforward: "Lean on the people who care about you. Accept help when you need it. Keep going."