Classmates of Reedley teen killed in a car accident at Reedley College vow to keep friend's memory alive

REEDLEY, Calif. (KFSN) -- For many of Crystal Hernandez's classmates coping with her loss is a lesson in itself. The senior at Reedley Middle College High School was just months away from starting her future as a young adult.

"She was almost there and the last conversation I had with her was regarding college and moving forward and she just wasn't able to get there," said Jennifer Acidera, Crystal's mentor.

Hernandez was killed after falling out of the back of a moving truck. Her sister, Jessica Trejo, said it is there on campus where she spent her best years.

"Crystal really loved school and was somebody that was very dedicated to school and she said she wanted to be a social worker. Because social workers had worked with her family in the past and she just really wanted to give back to the community"

But even in her short life Hernandez taught so many around her how to act and above all-- how to give.

"She didn't care where you came from-- how to love-- she cared about what was inside," said Joahnna Gallegos, Crystal's friend.

Hernandez dedicated her free time serving the community. Volunteering an estimated 400 hours as she worked toward her goal of becoming a social worker.

"She isn't going to be able to accomplish those things. So we'd like the community to give back to her-- let's give back to all those hours she dedicated to all our young people and our community," said Daisy Lopez, Crystal's mentor.

Hernandez's classmates and mentors plan to create a scholarship in her name. Even in death-- teaching those around her it is better to give than receive.