Mohsen Mahdawi graduates from Columbia University after release from ICE custody

Mohsen Mahdawi graduated from Columbia University with a bachelor's degree in philosophy Monday, less than three weeks after he was released from immigration custody after being detained at what he was told was a U.S. citizenship interview.

Mahdawi, who had been active in pro-Palestinian protests on campus in 2023, was greeted with cheers as he crossed the stage, wearing a graduation cap adorned with the scales of justice.

In an interview with CBS News shortly before the ceremony, Mahdawi said he felt a "mix of emotions" — including a "feeling of being victorious."

He plans to return to Columbia in the fall to pursue a graduate degree.