As graduation approaches, Kayla Barrios Bernal, a senior at Park West High School, is not only celebrating a major milestone—she’s preparing to take her next bold step. Just two days after walking the stage, Kayla will leave for boot camp to begin her journey with the United States Marines. “I’m really excited,” Kayla shared. “I’m thinking about the future, but also trying to enjoy every last minute of school.”
Kayla’s path to graduation has been anything but easy. Before enrolling at Park West, she faced homelessness for several years while attending Fremont Academy. During that time, she struggled to keep up with school while navigating life without stability. “There were times I was hungry, tired, and living in a car during the summer heat was no joke,” she said. “Sometimes we stayed in motels or with family, but it was hard. I fell behind in credits and wasn’t always able to do homework.”
Despite those challenges, Kayla never lost sight of her future. “I kept telling myself it was temporary,” she said. “No matter what was thrown my way, I chose to stay positive and keep going.” Everything changed when she arrived at Park West High School. “The relationships I’ve built here stand out the most,” Kayla said. “My teachers, counselor, and peers have had such a big impact on me. I wasn’t very open about my situation before, but here I found support. ”That support system, along with her family, became her foundation. “My school community helped me navigate everything, and my family has always been my biggest cheerleaders,” she said.
Today, Kayla describes herself as social, artistic, and empathetic—someone who enjoys connecting with others and uplifting those around her. Through her experiences, she’s discovered a powerful truth about herself: “You are stronger than you think. Tough times are temporary, but your resilience is permanent.”
Now back on track, Kayla is not only graduating, but also thriving. She is a dual enrollment student, earning college credits while finishing high school, and recently landed her first job working at the L.A. County Fair. “I’m really proud of how far I’ve come,” she said. “Getting out of that situation and building a better life means everything.” Her decision to join the Marines was sparked during a school college and career event. “I’ve always wanted to serve,” she said. “When I met the Marine recruiter, it just clicked.” While she’s excited for the physical and mental challenges ahead, she admits to some nerves. “I’m excited to push myself, but I’m also nervous about the tests,” she said. “I just remind myself to prepare and give it my best.”
Kayla believes her past has prepared her for what lies ahead. “I’ve learned endurance,” she said. “I’ve faced tough days and didn’t give up. I know I can go the distance.” After completing her service, Kayla plans to join the Marine Reserves while attending California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, where she has already been accepted. She plans to major in criminology, continuing her path of service to others. For Kayla, graduating is more than just a ceremony—it’s the achievement of a goal she once wasn’t sure she could reach. “There were times I doubted I’d get here,” she said. “But I kept going. And now I’m here.”
Her message to others facing difficult circumstances is simple but powerful: “Don’t ever give up. Reach out and ask for help. There are people who want to see you succeed.” When asked what resilience means to her, Kayla didn’t hesitate: “Push through. Have endurance—mentally and physically. If no one is pushing you, push yourself. Don’t make excuses. Don’t ever give up.”
From overcoming hardship to stepping into a future of service, Kayla Barrios Bernal’s story is a testament to strength, perseverance, and the power of believing in what’s possible.