Sandra’s story is one of quiet strength. Raised in a family balancing financial strain with love and faith, she learned early on the value of hard work and giving back. She regularly volunteers at her church to support those in need and believes deeply in the importance of showing up for her community, especially when times are hard.

School wasn’t always easy for Sandra. For years, she struggled with self-doubt, and remembers being pulled from class for language assessments, feeling embarrassed and underestimated. But she never let those moments define her. Instead, she used them as fuel.

Sandra challenged herself to take honors courses, even when they felt intimidating. While she struggled her first semester of Math 3, instead of giving up, she spent the summer studying and came back stronger, ready to try again. That mindset, of pushing through discomfort, is what she carries with her to college.

At Cal State Long Beach, Sandra is studying genetics with hopes of contributing to scientific breakthroughs that help others live healthier lives. She knows her path won’t be easy, but that’s never stopped her.