Cecilya Saldana
She/Her
3 Years in Care
Cecilya Saldana’s journey has been full of challenges, but it’s shaped her into a strong, resilient person. Growing up in foster care, Cecilya faced constant instability, making her high school years difficult. When she started at the University of Oregon, her first term didn’t go as planned, but she refused to give up. Her determination to succeed, even when it felt impossible, kept her moving forward.
Cecilya’s family faced their own struggles but despite these tough circumstances, she found the strength to keep pushing. With the help of programs like TRIO SSS, Cecilya was able to finish her college degree. Now working as a medical assistant, she uses the lessons she learned from her past to fuel her work ethic and passion for helping others.
Looking to the future, Cecilya is focused on becoming a nurse and eventually a nurse practitioner. She’s inspired by role models like her physical therapist and is determined to give back to the community. Cecilya’s story shows that with hard work and determination, anything is possible, and she’s committed to helping others find their own strength.
