Former foster child Carolina Gabaldon conquered it all: abuse, neglect, physical disabilities, depression, even two teenage pregnancies … Despite all she’s been through, the Cal State San Bernardino student persevered, graduating magna cum laude with her bachelor’s in 2016, and now working toward her master’s in public health.
Gabaldon is also a recipient of the 2017-2018 CSU Trustees’ Award for Outstanding Achievement, the California State University’s highest recognition of success.
“I have evolved from a broke, unloved, unwanted foster child and abuse victim into someone who is strong, capable and worthy of many things in life,” Gabaldon said. “I am tying my public health education and personal experiences together to give back to others who grew up as I did.”
The Victorville resident is a member of Lion’s Club International, where she volunteers to provide free eyeglasses to the visually impaired with low incomes. She has also volunteered more than 600 hours for a children’s diabetic camp.
Once Gabaldon obtains her master’s, she plans to get her doctorate degree for a career in health policy to help improve the opportunities and mental health programs for foster youth like herself.
