Jaime Sanchez

Jaime Sanchez reflected on what he has learned in the respiratory care master's program a couple of days before he walked the stage with his fellow graduates on May 21. In his time at The UT Health San Antonio School of Health Professions, he has learned a lot about his chosen field, including new technologies and inherent challenges. He's also taken in lessons on life.

"An education will open the door and it really has the potential to propel you forward, but I also have learned that your attitude is just as important," he said. "Just because we're getting a master's degree does not mean we are going to be entitled to these positions. I feel like attitude is really everything. Education opens the door, but if you have the wrong attitude, it closes the door."

Sanchez earned a master's in biomedical science from the University of Texas at El Paso. He knew he wanted to work in health care but wasn't sure which discipline. His interest in UT Health San Antonio School of Health Professions' respiratory care program stemmed in part from his own experience.

"Since I have asthma, I wanted to see what they had to offer," he said. "I felt like I would be able to relate more to those respiratory patients."

Sanchez, who served as RCSO Class Chair, will complete his clinical hours this summer in a level I adult trauma setting at Memorial Hermann in Houston. He plans to take his board exam in August and then teach English in Spain this fall before seeking a respiratory therapist position.

Of the three clinical experiences he had prior to this summer, Sanchez said he enjoyed pediatrics the most.

"It's a different type of culture and it's a very uplifting culture," he said of his experience at Texas Children's Hospital in Houston.