Posted on December 12, 2022 by
GRAD SPOTLIGHT: Stephanie Gutierrez
Degree: M.Ed. Higher Education Administration
Hometown: San Antonio, Texas
"I am a first-gen student from San Antonio, TX. I currently work at UT Health San Antonio working with students in dual-degree programs. My work is the reason I felt the need to get my master's and I am already incorporating lessons learned in my praxis. I am married and have two daughters, ages 7 and 5, who supported me through the journey to get my master's degree."
Why did you choose UTSA?
UTSA has a great program in the area I was looking for.
What was your favorite class and/or who was your favorite professor? Why?
My favorite class was student development because it helped give theoretical frameworks for things I had witnessed my didn’t know to name in working with medical students.
What would you say is the most important thing you’ve learned over the course of your studies?
Persistence is key for working full time, having a family, and getting a masters degree all at the same time.
What organizations or activities within COEHD that you’ve participated in?
Who’s Who at UTSA 200, Gamma Beta Phi honor society.
Describe any professional experiences or internship opportunities you have had. What did you learn from these opportunities?
For our program, we had to complete two internships and I was able to complete both at UT Health San Antonio. One was working with the Office of Student Affairs and the other was doing a needs assessment of the medical school’s student-parent population. I am currently still working with my site supervisor to publish our research and present it at various conferences on our work with student parents in medical school.
What is your fondest memory of your experience at UTSA?
The cohort that I was in throughout my time in the program was the backbone of my experience and I truly cherish them and our time together.
What are your plans for the future and/or your career?
Continue working with medical students with a focus on dual-degree students, as well as first-gen and student parents.
What has brought you inspiration during this time?
Music (Taylor Swift) and books were a great escape from studying.
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