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Berkeley freshmen

Kashawn Campbell, who grew up in one of the toughest neighborhoods in South Los Angeles, now attends UC Berkeley.

Kashawn Campbell, who grew up in one of the toughest neighborhoods in South Los Angeles, now attends UC Berkeley.  (Bethany Mollenkof / Los Angeles Times)

Kashawn Campbell and Spencer Simpson make the transition from South L.A. to UC Berkeley.

Berkeley freshmen | Spencer and Kashawn

With the first semester of school coming to an end, Kashawn Campbell prepares to sign up for spring classes with the help of Spencer Simpson.  (Bethany Mollenkof / Los Angeles Times)

Berkeley freshmen | Dorm life

Spencer Simpson spends time studying in his dorm room before class. Simpson grew up in Inglewood and attended Inglewood High.  (Bethany Mollenkof / Los Angeles Times)

Berkeley freshmen | Study group

To help prepare for his first college finals week, Kashawn Campbell attended as many study groups as possible.  (Bethany Mollenkof / Los Angeles Times)

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Berkeley freshmen | Pensive

Kashawn Campbell was a straight-A student at Jefferson High School in South L.A. But he is struggling at UC Berkeley.   (Bethany Mollenkof / Los Angeles Times)

Berkeley freshmen | African American studies class

Kashawn Campbell and his best friend, classmate and roommate Spencer Simpson, walk into their African American studies class.   (Bethany Mollenkof / Los Angeles Times)

Berkeley freshmen | Chat time

Spencer Simpson, left, and Kashawn Campbell chat before their African American studies class.   (Bethany Mollenkof / Los Angeles Times)

Berkeley freshmen | Taking a break

Kashawn Campbell takes a break from studying in his dorm room to chat with a friend on the phone.   (Bethany Mollenkof / Los Angeles Times)

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