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Honors student turns second chance at PBSC into a launchpad for medical school
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At just 19 years old, Catherine Eldred of Loxahatchee Groves exemplifies what is possible
when determination meets opportunity at Palm Beach State College (PBSC). Once an average
high school student unsure of her academic path, Catherine transformed her college
experience into a story of excellence, leadership, and purpose—emerging as an Honors
College standout with a 3.84 GPA and a clear vision for her future in medicine.
A graduate of Cardinal Newman High School, Catherine admits her GPA out of high school
was “not the greatest.” Rather than letting that define her, she saw PBSC as a second
chance—a place where opportunity, affordability, and support made success attainable.
As a first-generation college student, staying close to home for her first two years
was important, as was avoiding student debt early in her academic career. PBSC offered
both accessibility and the opportunity to prove herself.
Once enrolled, Catherine thrived. She earned a place in the PBSC Honors College and is completing the prestigious Gold Track, which requires 21 honors credits and
recognizes students for academic excellence and engagement. “I’ve done really well
here,” she says—and her academic record backs that up. Catherine has since been accepted
for transfer to Florida Atlantic University, where she hopes to continue in the Honors
College and remain challenged in an honors-only academic environment.
Beyond the classroom, PBSC opened doors for Catherine to grow as a leader and communicator.
Seeking to diversify her portfolio, she joined the PBSC debate team, competing on
topics as complex as whether the government should limit freedom of speech. Her team
advanced to the quarterfinals, and she traveled to Tallahassee over President’s Day
weekend to represent the College in competition. The experience strengthened her ability
to think critically, speak confidently, and see issues from multiple perspectives—skills
essential for her future in medicine.
Her confidence and communication skills also led her to an unexpected opportunity:
becoming a host of the Panther Experience Podcast. While attending a Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) conference in Baltimore, Catherine connected
with another PTK member who was impressed by her speaking ability and encouraged her
to step into the role. Now, Catherine hosts the podcast on campus multiple days a
week, interviewing faculty members such as Professor Robin Fielder and engaging the
PBSC community.
Service is another defining part of Catherine’s PBSC journey. Through Panther’s Closet, she completed honors credit courses focused on giving back—taking the class three
times. Proceeds from the initiative go directly toward supporting students on campus,
reinforcing Catherine’s commitment to helping others succeed.
Academically, Catherine has her eyes firmly set on the future. Her goal is to attend
medical school, with a particular interest in dermatology and dermatopathology. She
has already begun preparing, spending her free time studying for the MCAT, which she
plans to take in about a year and a half.
Reflecting on her experience, Catherine credits Palm Beach State College with preparing
her academically, professionally, and personally for what’s next. From honors coursework
and leadership travel opportunities to debate, service learning, and media experience,
PBSC helped her grow into a confident scholar ready to take the next step.
“I feel like PBSC has definitely prepared me for FAU,” she says—and her journey proves
it.
Her story is a powerful reminder that success isn’t defined by where you start, but
by the opportunities you embrace along the way. At Palm Beach State College, she found
those opportunities—and used them to soar.
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