James Franco
After one year as an English major, the Spring Breakers star dropped out to pursue his acting career while supporting himself with a late-night job at McDonald's. He later returned to his alma mater as a part-time student and guest professor.
Gabrielle Union
While studying sociology at UCLA, the actress interned at a talent agency where she was invited to sign as a model.
Kal Penn
Sometimes one major just isn't enough. The actor and member of President Barack Obama's administration studied both film and sociology.
Heather Locklear
This L.A. native pledged Chi Omega and Delta Delta Delta while in college, but never went through with initiation. Instead, she spent her time modeling and acting in commercials for the school's store.
Russell Westbrook
Coming out of high school, the NBA star didn't garner much attention from big basketball schools. With a little extra time, Westbrook was eventually offered a scholarship to UCLA where he made a name for himself in two seasons before entering the 2008 draft.
Heather Graham
The Hangover actress studied English for two years at the university before withdrawing (against her parents' wishes) to act full-time.
Mark Harmon
Before starring in the successful television series NCIS, the actor was the starting quarterback for the UCLA Bruins in both 1972 and 1973.
Lo Bosworth
The Hills star had both beauty and brains when she enrolled in UCLA, conveniently located in the heart of Southern California.
Jack Black
During his sophomore year, the Shallow Hal actor bid farewell to school to pursue his dreams. Even though his father stopped supporting him, Black ended up doing just fine.
Brooke Burke-Charvet
The Dancing With the Stars cohost studied broadcast journalism before getting a big break from a modeling agency.
Ben Stiller
The Zoolander actor said goodbye to UCLA less than a year after his first class.
Mariska Hartigay
The Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority sister attended UCLA's School of Theater, Film and Television before solving crimes on Law & Order: SVU.
Dax Shepard
The Parenthood actor once considered the Bruins to be his loyal family.
Sara Bareilles
Before graduating in 2002, the "Brave" singer practiced her skills as part of UCLA's Awaken A Cappella group.
Steve Martin
The Saturday Night Live veteran studied theatre at the university. At age 21, however, Martin dropped out, leaving him without a diploma.
Jaleel White
The comedic actor often known as Steve Urkel attended UCLA where he graduated with a degree in film and television in 2001.
George Takei
After being spotted by a casting agent in a UCLA theatre production, it's safe to say the Star Trek actor has his university to thank for part of his success.