In a world where care often feels abstract, Alexa Martinez, a senior at Amherst College, embodies it as an integral part of her daily life. Balancing her roles as a Community Advisor (CA), certified EMT, and teaching assistant, Martinez has dedicated her college years to building connections and support among her peers. Her commitment to being present for others highlights a unique approach to community and personal growth that resonates throughout the college environment.
From Tucson to Amherst: Discovering Shared Experiences
Martinez's journey began in Tucson, Arizona, where she navigated the complexities of being a first-generation, low-income student. College-prep programs designed for students like her solidified her understanding of community support. "I didn’t know being first-generation, low-income was such a big thing until then," she reflects, acknowledging how these programs transformed her perception of challenges into shared experiences. This awakening not only shaped her identity but also instilled a desire to create a similar sense of belonging for others.
Her choice of Amherst was not driven by a specific academic plan but by the warmth of its community. During an admitted students day, she felt an inexplicable connection as students and faculty engaged with her genuinely. "They wanted to know who I was. It felt homey in a way I can’t really explain," she recalls. This initial connection laid the groundwork for her community-building efforts throughout her college years.
Building Community Through Leadership
Transitioning to college life was challenging for Martinez. The academic demands and social dynamics posed typical hurdles for first-generation students. However, these challenges motivated her to create supportive environments for others facing similar experiences. After her first year, she took on the role of a CA, inspired by her own first-year CA who had shared her background. "He was always there for me, answering my questions, just being present. That mattered a lot," she notes.
As a CA, Martinez focused on fostering connections within her residence halls. Her commitment to community was evident through various initiatives, such as organizing Valentine’s Day events, movie nights, and gingerbread-decorating sessions that encouraged students to come together. "I just like hosting events. It makes people feel like they belong somewhere," she states, emphasizing the joy that community engagement brings to her life.
Navigating Emergency Care
In addition to her residential life involvement, Martinez's experience as a certified EMT with Amherst College Emergency Medical Services (ACEMS) introduced her to a different aspect of care—immediate and often unpredictable. Rising through the ranks to become a Med-10, she took on the role of Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the 2024-25 academic year, aiming to enhance the accessibility and inclusivity of the organization.
Her experiences in emergency response shaped her understanding of care under pressure, revealing the importance of both technical skills and emotional presence. "You show up, and someone is scared. Your job is to stabilize the situation and also just be there for them," she explains, highlighting the dual nature of her responsibilities.
Shifting Academic Focus
Although Martinez initially considered a career in consulting, her experiences at Amherst shifted her aspirations toward medicine and public health. Engaging with subjects like chemistry and biology revealed a growing interest in healthcare and its systemic challenges. "I want to change something in the healthcare system. Even if it’s just a small step," she asserts, reflecting her commitment to making a meaningful impact.
Her involvement in research related to opioid use disorders further connected her clinical experiences with broader public health issues, solidifying her choice to pursue a career that combines care, education, and policy.
Mentorship and Teaching
Teaching has been a consistent thread throughout Martinez's college experience. Working as a teaching assistant across various STEM courses, she draws on the patience and accessibility she received from her own mentors. "I remember students saying they’d never do math again. And then later they’d come back like, ‘oh, this makes sense now.’ That’s the best feeling," she shares, underscoring her dedication to fostering understanding and growth in her students.
Martinez's mentorship extends beyond academics; she participates actively in the Summer Bridge program, helping first-generation students transition into college life. Watching these students grow from their first semester onward has been particularly rewarding for her.
Looking to the Future
As she prepares to graduate, Martinez's path remains diverse. She plans to take a gap year before attending medical school, with interests in teaching and public health. She has been awarded a Fulbright Fellowship to serve as an English teaching assistant in Italy, which will broaden her horizons.
"I want to explore teaching a little more. I love helping people, and I love being in classrooms," she expresses, indicating a clear alignment between her values and future endeavors.
Martinez's journey at Amherst encapsulates a rich range of experiences centered on care, community, and mentorship. Her multifaceted roles as an EMT, CA, TA, and friend reflect an unwavering commitment to being present for others. As she moves forward, her dedication to fostering care in all its forms is likely to leave a lasting impact on the communities she engages with, both in healthcare and education.
About the author
MJI Desk
MJI Desk covers consumer tech for MJI News.
