Determined to Succeed: Shailah Roybal’s Story at CR

Published on Nov 3 2025

At just 17, Shailah Roybal has already lived a life filled with challenges, heartbreak, and triumph. Growing up in the Eel River Valley, she faced circumstances that might have discouraged anyone. At age 10, she and her siblings were placed in foster care, separated from parts of their family. Yet even in the face of adversity, she discovered a dream early on: to become an ultrasound technician.

“I told everybody I was going to do it,” Shailah recalls. “I didn’t care if people said I wasn’t strong enough or smart enough. I was going to become it, no matter what.”

Her teenage years were turbulent. Between the justice system and a rocky home life, she often felt lost, but she never lost her ambition. With determination, she turned away from negative influences and focused on her education, graduating high school a year and a half early. “I sacrificed my senior year for my future,” she says. “I wanted to leave that toxic environment behind and get started on my dreams.”

College became a place of support and opportunity. Enrolled at College of the Redwoods (CR) while still in high school, Shailah took classes in biology, psychology, and English. She also benefited from tutoring services, which helped her realize her own intelligence. “I realized I was smart,” she says. “I just needed a little crutch sometimes, and that’s okay. It doesn’t make me weak, it makes me prepared.”

Mentors played a key role in her journey. Summer Ferrier, a staff member she met through the Upward Bound program, has been a constant source of encouragement. “She’s always been there for me,” Shailah says. “Even when I felt at my lowest, she reminded me that I had the strength inside me.” Another influential figure was Jackie Patmore, her first biology teacher at CR, who instilled confidence in her academic abilities. “She made me feel like it was okay not to know everything,” Shailah says. “She helped me believe in myself.”

Shailah has faced her share of hurdles along the way. From navigating the pressures of high school to balancing the demands of college coursework, she’s learned the value of determination. “Every challenge taught me something about my own strength,” she reflects. “It’s not about proving anyone else wrong. It’s about showing myself what I’m capable of.”

Now, she’s on track to complete her prerequisites and transfer to Oregon Institute of Technology to continue her studies in sonography. “I’ve been through a lot, but I’m here,” Shailah says. “I’m doing it for myself, to prove that I can, and to inspire others who might be struggling.”

Her story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of support. She reminds us that success isn’t defined by age, circumstance, or setbacks, it’s about showing up, believing in yourself, and never giving up.

“Success can mean anything,” she reflects. “It can be as small as waking up in the morning, brushing your teeth, or getting through a hard day. It’s about doing something for yourself, no matter the circumstance.”

At 17, Shailah Roybal is already teaching a lesson many of us take a lifetime to learn: courage, persistence, and self-belief can overcome even the toughest odds.