Gerardo Langarica Martinez, also known as Jerry, is a B.A. Kinesiology Physical Education Teacher Education student at Chico State, graduating in the class of 2023. Throughout his academic journey, he has achieved notable accomplishments, including being named Kinesiology P.E.T.E Student of the Year and College of Communication & Education Outstanding Leader Award. Jerry's outstanding academic performance is reflected in his 3.4 Cumulative GPA.

As a Dreamer/Undocumented Student, Jerry has been an active advocate. In 2012, he co-founded a club for Dreamers at Norco College, where he completed his studies and received four associate degrees in 2021. His commitment to community service is evident through his extensive involvement, having contributed close to 300 hours during his time at Chico State. Moreover, he served as the Vice President of the Chico State P.E.T.E Club and the Volunteer Coordinator for Chico State Paradise U.

Jerry holds a deep appreciation for Norco College, as it provided him with an exceptional education and unwavering support from professors and staff. He expresses gratitude to individuals such as Dr. Zina Chacon, Professor David Mills, Amy Kramer, and Steven Gonzalez for their life-changing impact. Dr. Janet Hill and Ruben Aguilar have also been influential figures, inspiring Jerry's personal growth and academic pursuits.

Belonging to a resilient and hardworking family, Jerry takes immense pride in his family's determination. Despite economic challenges, they value wisdom, gratitude, and love. Jerry's ultimate goal, shared by his siblings, is for all six of them to become college graduates, honoring their parents' sacrifices. Reflecting on his journey, Jerry remains dedicated to achieving his dreams and making a positive impact on society.

In the pursuit of his major in Kinesiology Physical Education Teacher Education, Jerry aspires to transform communities through quality education. He believes in creating a safe and encouraging environment for his students, instilling values of empathy, perseverance, and the belief that anything is possible through hard work. Jerry aims to promote physical activity as a means of personal transformation, teaching his students the importance of maintaining physical and mental well-being.

Beyond the classroom, Jerry has demonstrated a strong commitment to service. Following the devastating Camp fires in Chico, he actively participated in the Paradise U program. Jerry volunteered as a college student, organizing and leading physical activities for elementary school students affected by the fires. He took on the additional responsibility of a volunteer coordinator, overseeing communication with principals, training student volunteers, and ensuring the delivery of quality education through physical activity. Jerry's dedication to helping youth recover from the impact of the fires and fostering their social and physical development is deeply meaningful to him.

Jerry's journey is marked by his resilience, determination, and unwavering dedication to making a difference. His experiences and accomplishments serve as a source of inspiration for others, encouraging them not to give up on their dreams and to embrace their unique path in life. Looking ahead, Jerry is excited to embark on the Chico State Credential Program in the fall of 2023, eagerly anticipating future opportunities to contribute to education and society on a larger scale.

Special thanks to Dr. Zina Chacon and David Mills, representing the Puente Program, as well as Amy Kramer and Steven Gonzalez from the EOPS program, for their invaluable support and guidance in Jerry's journey. Norco College extends its deepest appreciation to all of the dedicated faculty and classified professionals who played a significant role in Jerry's life.