How This Murrieta Grad Went From 'Adversity To Triumph': Shoutout

MURRIETA, CA — Graduation is a major milestone and deserves to be celebrated! That's why Patch and T-Mobile have teamed up to recognize our community's outstanding 2024 graduates.

This submission comes from Jay Gal who nominated Faith of Murrieta.

Graduate’s name

Faith

What grade is the graduate finishing?

College

What school is your graduating student graduating from?

Grand Canyon University

How do you know your graduating student nominee?

Daughter

Tell us why they deserve to be nominated!

I am thrilled to nominate my daughter, Faith Gal, for recognition as she graduates from Grand Canyon University. Faith's journey to this moment has been a testament to her resilience, positivity, and unwavering determination to turn adversity into opportunity.

Faith's path took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with a rare blood disorder during high school. This diagnosis, while initially challenging, ultimately became the guiding force that led her to pursue a career in nursing. Despite the heartbreaking realization that she could no longer pursue her passions for lacrosse and water polo, Faith remained steadfast in her determination to make a difference in the lives of others.

Throughout high school, Faith demonstrated exceptional leadership and academic excellence, earning a remarkable 4.2 GPA and emerging as a natural leader in the ROTC program. However, her journey to higher education was not without its obstacles. Despite her stellar academic record and leadership qualities, Faith faced rejection from nursing programs at various colleges.

Despite these setbacks, Faith refused to be deterred. Her senior year of high school, devoid of traditional milestones like prom and homecoming dances due to her health condition, became an opportunity for her to inspire others. Her TikTok graduation video, featuring heartfelt messages from her favorite celebrities, went viral, spreading joy and hope to millions around the world.

At Grand Canyon University, Faith found her calling. Her journey from adversity to triumph culminates in her graduation almost a year early with a Nursing degree. Her experience with her blood disorder has uniquely prepared her to empathize with and care for patients facing similar challenges, making her a compassionate and dedicated caregiver.

Faith's journey is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the transformative impact of adversity. She embodies the values of courage, compassion, and service, inspiring all who have had the privilege of knowing her. As she embarks on her career as a nurse, I have no doubt that Faith will continue to make a profound difference in the lives of others, offering comfort, hope, and healing in times of need.

Faith Gal is more than deserving of recognition for her remarkable achievements and unwavering spirit. It is with great pride and admiration that I nominate her for this honor as she graduates from Grand Canyon University.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about your graduating student nominee?

One thing everyone should know about Faith is her undeniable charm and magnetic personality. However, there's one caveat—never entrust her with your phone! While Faith may excel in many areas of life, handling delicate electronics isn't her strong suit. With a track record of mishaps that could rival a comedy sketch, it's best to keep your phone out of Faith's hands to avoid any unexpected adventures in phone repair. Despite this minor quirk, Faith's endearing nature and infectious laughter make her a joy to be around, reminding us all to embrace life's little quirks with a smile.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the star local student?

Congratulations on your achievements, and all of our best wishes to you in the future, Faith!

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.

Know an outstanding student who deserves a shout-out?

Nominate them here.