Jennifer Santos '23

I'm a proud alumni of Cal State Long Beach, where my parents met and fell in love. After my dad passed away suddenly in 2018, I was determined to continue his legacy and attend the same school. I was a transfer student and had to balance two jobs, grieving, and figuring out my identity. It was a difficult time, but I was determined to make the most of my life. At Cal State Long Beach, I was able to confirm my career path in healthcare and develop my time management skills. I was also able to appreciate the professors and their enthusiasm for their subjects. I was even featured in the commencement speech! After graduating, I took a break and then worked as a behavioral technician and coordinator. I realized that clinical work wasn't for me, so I took a risk and quit my job. I was able to find a new job within a week and I'm now working in customer service and nutrition. I'm helping people in the ways that I want to and making a difference in the community. I'm grateful for my time at Cal State Long Beach and the lessons I learned. It was a difficult journey, but I'm proud of the person I've become.