Student spotlight: Anahi Garate

Meet Anahi Garate from Yakima, WA! Read on to learn about her college journey that was filled with many challenges, including the transition from high school and managing the responsibilities of being a new mother. Despite these obstacles, Anahi has persevered with the help of her CSF coach, Samantha Reyes. Her resilience and determination have kept her on track to graduate in Spring 2025!

What is your hometown?
My hometown is Yakima, WA.

How did you choose the college/university?
I chose to go to YVC because it was close to home and my family.

What is your major (or intended major)?
My major is medical assistant.

What is your dream job?
My dream job is to become a medical assistant and work for a private clinic.

Any clubs, activities or interests you are a part of outside of class?
Yes, I play volleyball on the weekends and sometimes go to the gym.

What has been the most surprising thing for you so far about college?
The most surprising thing about college is the amount of help you can receive from all places.

What is a challenge you have encountered in college and how did you navigate it?
I had a hard time asking for help, but thanks to my CSF coach, Sam, she’s been my number-one support system since I went back to college. I was born and raised in Yakima. I graduated from A.C. Davis high school in 2021! It was a hard transition from high school to college especially with a newborn baby. I was taking classes in the 2021 fall quarter but unfortunately had to give myself a gap year due to the stress from school and having a baby. Later in the summer of 2022, I was called by my CSF coach, and thanks to her, I was able to get back on track and start that same year in the fall, and I have been attending YVC ever since! I’m expected to graduate in the spring quarter of 2025!

What student supports / resources have you utilized that have been most helpful to you?
I have used the CSF program by reaching out to my advisor.

What is one piece of advice you’d like to share with fellow students?
Always reach out if you need help don’t hesitate to ask because you have these amazing resources.