For Emma Sanchez ’25, her college studies are a combination of lab coats and microscopes along with classic books and philosophical conversations. Both her biological sciences and honors humanities majors contribute to broadening her understanding of how to care for others ethically, displaying the love of Christ in all she does.
Born in Tennessee, Sanchez moved around many different states growing up because her father was in the military. She spent the last few years before college in Kentucky, which she now considers home. When deciding where to attend college, she was searching for a Christian university with a quality science education. “I’ve always known I want to become a doctor,” Sanchez said. “My mom was a social worker in nursing homes and I was inspired at a young age to help others.” Sanchez became a Christian in middle school, and her passion for science led her to envision participating in medical missions someday.
Around the same time that Sanchez embarked on her college journey at Azusa Pacific University, there was a fire at her family’s house. “We lost everything. Going immediately to school was difficult, and the only way we can truly learn is through challenges,” Sanchez said. The professors who walked alongside her, encouraging Sanchez to work to her fullest potential, have made a significant impact on her experience. “The most important thing I’ve learned is that no matter how many pushbacks you encounter, you can always achieve the goal you set for yourself as long as that remains at the forefront of your mind.”
Diving into classic philosophical and literary texts in honors has enhanced Sanchez’s integration of faith into science. “It’s fascinating to learn about how ethics play a role in my approach to research, which is something I’ll carry with me when I study medicine.” Sanchez also appreciates the ways honors has deepened her critical thinking, public speaking, and writing skills.
APU as a whole has introduced Sanchez to different faith traditions through chapel and a diverse community. “One of the primary reasons why I chose APU was to be immersed in a variety of traditions that are under the umbrella of Christianity,” she said.
When she’s not in class, chapel, or hanging out with friends, Sanchez spends a majority of her time working at San Antonio Regional Hospital as a medical scribe. Her job entails documenting conversations between doctors and patients for their records. “I work in the ER, so some days are great and patients recover, but there are times when they don’t,” she said. “I’ve learned more about the value of life and that God makes everyone in His image. I’m constantly in awe of the way he created our bodies to work.”
After Sanchez graduates, she plans to keep pursuing her dream of caring for others as a doctor. She looks forward to going to medical school, getting involved in research, and also hopes to travel the world with her family.
Sanchez’s future is evidently filled with lots of possibilities to serve God, explore her passions, and continue learning. She strives to make the most of her time at APU to relish in the joy of expanding her knowledge in a Christ-centered environment.