Federico Martinez

Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting

Federico Martinez first attended YVC through the Running Start Program while attending Toppenish High School. Following graduation he transferred to the University of Washington (UW) and graduated in 2010 with a bachelor’s degree. “When I graduated UW, it was very difficult to find work with my degree. I returned to YVC again 8 years after my Running Start days to attend the YVC Medical Assisting program,” stated Federico Martinez.

In 2013 he earned an associate of applied science degree in medical assisting and began working at Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic. Wanting to continue his education he began taking pre-med courses at the college. “My parents always told me that the key to a better life was a good education, and that always motivated me to keep learning and studying. There was a few quarters where I was balancing a full-time job and a full-time student schedule. Some nights I would be too tired to study, but thinking about the lives I wanted for my sons helped me push through. I am constantly looking ahead and pushing myself to go further,” he continued.

Martinez was selected to participate in YVC’s undergraduate summer research projects. These projects are made possible by a science, technology, engineering, and math grant through the US Department of Education. YVC works in partnership with Heritage University to offer this opportunity to students. He worked with YVC faculty and a group of students to study the water quality of the Yakima River and its’ tributaries, and the process that our waste water goes through before being released into the Yakima River. “This research project opened doors, allowing me to access aspects of our community that many will never see. It also allowed me to meet Ecology professionals and leaders of the field. Participating in this project was beneficial because it will give me a competitive edge when it comes time to apply to medical school,” stated Martinez.

He will complete his coursework in June 2016. He then plans to pursue medical school and hopes to become doctor who works in a low-income community.