Eleven years ago, Laura Diaz and her three children left their home due to domestic issues, finding sanctuary at Good Shepherd Shelter in Los Angeles.

After a period of healing, in which Ms. Diaz received counseling and developed her English-speaking skills, her family eventually moved into their own home, and Ms. Diaz began taking classes at Citrus College.

While working full time and taking a full course load, Ms. Diaz also found time to volunteer regularly at Union Rescue Mission in downtown Los Angeles. Her work ethic impressed Raul Sanchez, her academic counselor in the college's Extended Opportunity Programs and Services program, who helped her transfer successfully to California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (CPP), as a sociology major.

At CPP, Ms. Diaz's determination and intellectual curiosity inspired her sociology professor, Dr. Caitlin Clarke, to recommend her for the California State University (CSU) 2019 Trustees' Award for Outstanding Achievement.

This honor is given each year to students who demonstrate superior academic performance, personal accomplishments, community service and financial need. Included in the award is a donor-funded scholarship that ranges between $6,000 and $15,000.

Ms. Diaz eventually wants to become a social worker so that she can help others navigate difficult and challenging situations.

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This student spotlight was originally shared in the November 2019 edition of the Citrus View.