Adriana Vasquez: ECC has provided me with more than just an education.

My time at Elgin Community College has been both meaningful and transformative. As a respiratory therapy student preparing to graduate, I reflect with gratitude on the journey that brought me here. After beginning my career in a laboratory setting, I realized I wanted a more hands-on role in patient care. That realization led me back to school and onto a new path, one that challenged me, shaped me, and confirmed my passion for becoming a respiratory therapist. 

This journey requires sacrifice and balance. While attending school full-time, I worked night shifts in healthcare, managed my sleep as best as I could, supported my parents at home, and stayed involved in my church. At the same time, I was learning in new environments as an intern at a hospital and working as a respiratory care technician. There were moments when the exhaustion felt overwhelming. I didn’t know whether to cry or simply sleep to reset my body and emotions. Still, I pushed forward, learning how to stay mentally focused and retain everything I was studying. 

I did not do this alone. I am deeply grateful to many, but especially to God. I prayed before starting, and after that, God opened doors. I knew there were adjustments, changes, and sacrifices I had to make before beginning the program, but He made everything fall into place. I was also honored to receive the Illinois Community College System Foundation Scholarship, which allowed me to work less, get more rest, and focus more on my studies. This support showed me how much the community believed in me and invested in my journey to make a difference.  

He also placed the right people in my life. My family has been a big part of my journey, supporting me in every way I needed, even when I did not ask, they stepped in. My aunt Gema encouraged me from the very beginning when I shared that I had signed up, reminding me that I was capable and that I should never give up. My professor, Adyson, showed patience and understanding during difficult moments, encouraging me to keep going even when I struggled to stay awake in class. She made me feel at ease every time I could not understand certain subjects and always took the time to explain. Along the way, I continued to lean on my faith, finding strength and guidance throughout this journey.  

Despite the challenges, there have been many rewarding moments. One of the most meaningful parts of this experience has been caring for patients. Seeing patients of all ages improve and going home with a smile makes every sacrifice worth it. It reminds me why I chose this path to become someone patient can trust and rely on during vulnerable moments in their lives. 

ECC has provided me with more than just an education; it has given me a foundation for my future. As I look ahead, I am excited to continue growing in respiratory care, with hopes of working in specialized areas such as NICU or pediatrics. I am committed to lifelong learning and to providing compassionate, high-quality care. 

To future ECC students, my advice is simple: do not give up. There will be challenges, moments of doubt, and times when you feel overwhelmed, but keep going. Stay focused on your goals, ask for help when you need it, and trust that your hard work will pay off. Pursue your dreams with determination and purpose. 

Most importantly, enjoy your college journey. It is a time of growth, resilience, and discovery. ECC has been a significant part of my story, and I will carry these experiences and lessons with me into my career and beyond. 

Adriana Vasquez, ‘26 

Respiratory Care 

Elgin, IL