I have always dreamed of working in the medical field. But, as a young, single mother, I had to make the difficult decision to put school aside and my family first. Life was not easy. Money and time were scarce. However, I do not regret putting my family first. My children are my greatest accomplishment and my biggest supporters.
As time moved forward, I still dreamed of a career in medicine. I moved to Redding, CA, to be closer to my parents. I was able to enroll in Shasta College and work full time to support my family. I knew that through hard work and persistence, I would be closer to my dream. I was able to earn two associate degrees after 10 years of part-time classes, but I really wanted to become an RN and make a difference in patients’ lives – so I applied to Shasta College’s nursing program.
I cannot express enough the gratitude I have for Shasta College’s faculty. In every step of this program, I was given the support necessary to accomplish my dream. Thank you to all my professors. To Linda Thomas and Kim Giles, your support was life-changing. I could not have done this without you all!
My life has been filled with struggles and blessings. I am proud of my journey and the person I am today. It wasn’t always easy, but in the end, it was all worth it. Every life event has created who I am today: a proud Latina woman, mother, and now an RN.
Mina
Shasta College Knight