Mareena P.V. / “I'm most proud of my determination and perseverance, because life hasn't been easy.”
"I knew I was capable of accomplishing my goals if I just kept going," Mareena says.
Five years and six degrees later, she's proven it.
This past fall, she graduated with honors from Chico State University. She accomplished an incredible amount while in school, sharing:
"Just 5 years ago I didn't even have a GED. Now I have earned my GED, 5 associate degrees, and a bachelor degree."
Ask her what she's most proud of, and it isn't the diplomas themselves.
"I'm most proud of my determination and perseverance," she says, "because life hasn't been easy, and I've had plenty of days where I wanted to give up."
She didn't carry that determination alone.
"I'm very thankful to have the support of my husband, my kids, and my sister. Foster Nation has also been an important resource for me along my educational journey."
Mareena's story isn't only about what she's overcome. It's about what she wants for the young people coming up behind her. Her encouragement to anyone in foster care right now is:
"Believe in yourself and know that you deserve the best. Your situation isn't permanent and things do get better even if it might not feel like it right now."
When reflecting on the foster care system, Mareena hopes to see “more oversight because foster kids are treated unfairly too often,” along with caseworkers who take the time to truly know and listen to the young people they serve.
Mareena believes community and consistent connection can make all the difference, sharing:
“Having community and consistent connection is important because it gives a sense of belonging and purpose.” That support is practical, too, especially when “too many foster youth often have little to no resources after aging out of the foster care system.”
Mareena’s story is a reminder of what can happen when determination meets support, and that sometimes, the biggest wins begin with simply choosing to keep going.
Like Mareena, you can use your voice to tell your story and help others understand the foster care experience. Share your story here.
