Kanye West addressed a graduating class of fashion students on Friday as only he can.

TMZ reports that just prior to the start of the ceremony West went backstage and sought to encourage graduating seniors from the prestigious LA Trade Tech College, telling them, "When you're the best you get hated the most."

Later, the almost 38-year-old West was seen sitting in the front row of the ceremony, looking as if he was thoroughly enamored by all that was going on around him. The website adds the school is the same institution where West did his community service stemming from a recent assault case involving a photographer at the LA Airport.

TMZ also noted West completed his community service requirements some time ago and wasn't required to attend Friday's festivities but simply chose to. As for the assault case itself, Kim Kardashian's newlywed husband also recently settled the civil lawsuit connected to it, and he and the photographer involved, Daniel Ramos, shook hands on the agreement.

West was initially criminally charged with misdemeanor battery and pled no contest, leading to him receiving probation. Ramos' attorney Gloria Allred explained another aspect of the arrangement called for West to apologize to Ramos. It remains unclear if any financial payout was required.

"We believe that this case sent an important message," said Allred. "Celebrities are not above the law, and they have no right to physically attack someone simply because they were asked a question."

The outspoken West is known for such hits as "Jesus Walks," "All Fall Downs," "N*ggas in Paris," "Run This Town," "Stronger," "E.T." and "Gold Digger."

West and Kardashian recently celebrated their one-year anniversary by releasing a collage of throwback wedding photos commemorating their big day.