Gloria’s interest in art and working with her hands started when she was a child. She enjoyed painting and drawing. Her father, a construction worker, taught her about various tools and how to build things. She always knew she wanted to work in healthcare, but she didn’t want to work in a hospital setting, so Gloria pursued her undergraduate degree in kinesiology and exercise science at California State University-San Bernadino.

While in school, she worked part-time as a behavioral therapist for kids. Gloria noticed two of her patients used orthotic devices, which sparked her interest in POP. One of her professors encouraged her to shadow at a POP clinic, and she fell in love with how the profession combines healthcare, exercise and working with her hands.

Gloria is finishing her master's in prosthetics and orthotics at California State University-Dominguez Hills and looking forward to starting her residency. Gloria is particularly interested in working with athletes and children. She is actively involved in the POP community and enjoys attending events such as those organized by the Challenged Athletes Foundation. Outside of her studies, she is passionate about learning new languages, hoping to use these skills to connect with and assist future patients.