When Amira Garibay firststepped onto the Coalinga College campus in the summer of 2013, she couldn't have imagined the journey ahead—or that she'd one day return to walk the graduation stage with not one but three college degrees. Her path wasn't linear. It was marked by long work shifts, personal loss, academic burnout, and a five-year gap. But it's also a story of resilience, family, and rediscovered purpose —one that came full circle, thanks to the support she found at Coalinga College.
Garibay wasjust out of high school when she enrolled at Coalinga College. With her mother, a single parent, facing financial hardship, a four-year university felt out of reach. Community college offered a more affordable path close to home. However, juggling a full course load, work-study hours, and a night shift at the Wonderful Pistachio Company soon became too much. After a year and a half, the relentless pace caught up with her, and she stepped away from college.
Throughout it all, her most significant source of encouragement was her aunt, Domenica Sanchez, Academic Advising Specialist for the College Assistance migrant program (CAMP) and the High School Equivalency Program (HEP) at Coalinga College. Sanchez wasn't just a mentor; she was the first person in their family to graduate from college, and her example inspired Amira to enroll. Even after Amira stepped away, her aunt continued to check in, reminding her that her dreams were still possible.
"I always knew Amira had the strength and determination to return to college," said Sanchez. "Sometimes life takes us on unexpected detours, but I never doubted her potential. She needed time, steady encouragement, and the reminder that she was never alone. I've seen her resilience, her intelligence, and her heart. I believe in her completely and want her to believe in herself just as much. No matter how tough the road gets, I'll be here to support her every step of the way. Her future isstill wide open, and I know she has everything it takes to succeed."
Then life threw another challenge: Amira's mother was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer. Suddenly, she was balancing caregiving, two jobs, and the weight of uncertainty. She took a five-year break to care for her family and regain her footing. Thankfully, her mother is now in remission—a turning point that gave Amira space to refocus on her own goals.
In 2022, Amira returned to Coalinga College with a new perspective, maturity, and renewed determination. She resumed her studies in the Administration of Justice program and, driven by a more profound sense of purpose, added two more degrees in Behavioral Health Sciences and Sociology.
This time, Amira had not only personal clarity but also stability. She had access to a car, her aunt helped her purchase books, and she worked two jobs that supported her educational goals. She became a caregiver for her mom and an instructional aide for the Avenal school district, both positions that offered the flexibility she needed to balance work and school.
"I had to grow up a little first," she said. "Now, I have the right kind of work and support to help me stay focused. I can balance school and life much better than I did when I was younger."
A pivotal influence during her return was Sociology Instructor Rodolfo Rodriguez, whose mentorship reshaped her future.
"Professor Rodriguez made a huge impact on me," Amira said. "He shared that he also had hardships getting through college. Knowing someone else understood what I was going through made me feel less alone. He encouraged me to keep going, and because of him, I added a Sociology degree."
Rodriguez supported her through the transfer process and helped her envision a future in education.
"Amira’s perseverance is incredible,” said Rodriguez.“She showed up with purpose and resilience. I saw her potential early on and wanted to ensure she knew she could accomplish anything. Sometimes, a student needs to hear that they’re capable.”
At the 2024 commencement, Amira was honored with the Society, Culture, and Public Safety Learning Area Award, a reflection of the strength she brought back to her education and the impact she left behind.
With support from her aunt and instructors and a more stable life, Amira was accepted into all four colleges she applied to. She chose California State University, Fresno, where she just completed her first year and is on track to graduate in spring 2026 with a degree in Sociology.
“I wanted the real university experience,” she said. “I didn’t think I would ever be a college graduate, but Coalinga College gave me the confidence and foundation to make that dream real. Now I know I belong here.”
Amira plans to pursue a teaching credential and inspire the next generation—just as Rodolfo Rodriguez inspired her.
“I want to be that kind of teacher who helps students see what’s possible.” From burnout to breakthrough, Amira Garibay’s story is proof that the path to success isn’t always straight, but with courage, community, and support, it can come full circle.