Crystal Carbajal

Fall 2024 Initial Student Teaching Placement: Clovis East High School

Spring 2025 Final Student Teaching Placement: Arroyo Grande High School

Crystal Carbajal, a graduate of California State University, Fresno, holds a degree in Agricultural Education with an emphasis in Animal Science. Raised in Nipomo, California, her connection to agriculture runs deep, rooted in her grandparents' migration to the U.S. as farm workers in Santa Maria, CA. By the time Crystal was born, her grandparents had established their own farm, growing strawberries, jicama, and marigolds. Crystal spent much of her childhood helping in the fields, cultivating a strong passion for plant science.

Her journey into veterinary science began in high school when her advisor helped her secure a job at a local veterinary hospital. Working at the Dog and Cat Hospital, Crystal’s love for animal care flourished. She also competed in FFA projects, participated in veterinary science proficiency and team events, and showed livestock—primarily sheep and chickens—at the Santa Barbara County Fair. These experiences ignited her desire to pursue a career that merged both agriculture and education.

Crystal’s teaching journey began with her student teaching at Clovis East High School, where she taught floral design, agriculture chemistry, and co-taught veterinary science. She credits her success to the invaluable mentorship she received from the incredible teachers who guided her throughout this experience. Crystal is now moving on to her final student teaching placement at [school name], where she will be teaching [courses].

Throughout her academic and professional career, Crystal has worked in a variety of veterinary settings, including general practice and emergency care. This hands-on experience has enriched her teaching, allowing her to integrate real-world applications into her lessons and engage her students more effectively.

Outside of her work, Crystal enjoys spending time with family and friends. As a proud member of California’s Central Coast, she finds peace in visiting her hometown, often enjoying the beach and building sandcastles with her young son.