Krystal Rivera was nominated for the Graduate Spotlight by Jessica Carmen, Director of Career Services at SJVC in Hesperia, CA.
“Krystal is a shining example of hard work, perseverance, and excellence,” says Jessica. “She graduated from the SJVC Hesperia Pharmacy Technology program with a perfect 4.0 GPA, showcasing not only her academic dedication but also her deep understanding and commitment to her future career.”
Krystal stood out in her class because she demonstrated an ability to excel under pressure and approach challenges with a calm, methodical mindset. Her positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to help peers made her a natural leader.
“Part of what makes Krystal’s story even more special is her journey back to school, which was inspired by her daughter, Maryah, a fellow SJVC graduate,” Jessica adds. “Both mother and daughter entered school at the same time, supported each other throughout their course of study, and will graduate together. This beautiful story of achieving their goals together deserves to be celebrated.”
In addition to sharing her story for this Graduate Spotlight, Krystal’s story will be celebrated at the upcoming graduation ceremony on May 9, 2025.
It was a pleasure to hear from Krystal, who shared more about her time as a student in the Pharmacy Technology program—and in her new career.
When did you graduate from the Pharmacy Technology program?
My graduation date is May 9, 2025, but my last day of my externship was March 14, 2025.
What did you do before you began the program?
I was working at a warehouse, wrapping pallets.
What made you decide to study pharmacy technology?
My Grandma inspired me. She suffered from diabetes, amongst other things. When I was a kid, I would often see her taking a lot of medications; I wanted to have a better understanding about why she took them, and how the medications helped her.
I became interested in working in pharmacy, but put that wish on the back burner until my oldest daughter graduated high school. She didn’t want to attend college alone. I had always told myself I was too old to go back to school, but I didn’t want to let my daughter feel alone while she attended school—so we started together. I enrolled in Pharmacy Technology, and she enrolled in Medical Office Administration.
Going to school with your daughter must have been an unforgettable experience. What was it like? How did you support each other?
It felt good going to school together; it was a great experience.
I was and still am so proud of my daughter. I witnessed her work so hard, studying and getting everything done. She pushed me to go back to school, and I pushed her as well to get a career started at a young age. We leaned on one another a lot, and I strongly believe that if I hadn’t attended with her, I probably would have given up.
It’s so great that you had each other for support throughout your programs. What was your favorite part of the Pharmacy Technology program, and what did you find challenging?
My favorite parts of the program were the friends I made, how helpful my instructors Ms. Stokes and Ms. Ramirez were, and just the program overall. I enjoyed every minute of it.
The most challenging part for me was testing my knowledge in math. I have always struggled with math, even as a kid. But studying and getting help when I needed it made a difference, and I improved.
Where did you do your externship?
I did my externship at Walgreens, and my experience was great. I got to see how a pharmacy works. Although there were some minor challenges when customers were unhappy, it wasn’t anything that I couldn’t handle.
Where do you work now? What does a typical day look like for you?
I was recently hired in April of 2025, at the Walgreens where I did my externship. I am currently a Pharmacy Customer Service Associate until I get my license; then I will be hired as a Pharmacy Tech.
A typical day so far for me is working at the cash register and helping customers at the front of the store. I’m still training. When the pharmacy needs me, I will go back there to help with everything except filling, until I get my license.
What do you like most about your job?
I enjoy helping people and serving my community in any way I can. I enjoy staying busy, so that’s a plus in pharmacy and retail—you’re always busy. Even on the days when I encounter an unhappy customer, I still enjoy helping them.
Do you have any advice for someone who is just beginning the program?
Learn how to utilize your time properly, especially if you’re a mother (I am a mother of five). Don’t fall behind on any schoolwork, study as much as possible, and ask questions—even if you think it’s not a good question. Ask, ask, ask—if anything is challenging, ask for help. And it’s never too late to start school! I’m 39.
