For Juan Martin, a second-year physical therapy student at UT Health Science Center, it's not just about hitting the books, but also about hitting the pavement. As reported by UTHSC, Martin, with roots in Cookeville, Tennessee, and Guatemalan heritage, embodies the tenacity of a first-generation student. Juggling academic rigors and a part-time job, he has managed to not only stay afloat but also to excel in his studies and beyond.

Martin's venture into physical therapy began as an undergraduate at Tennessee Tech University. There, he combined his love for sports with a burgeoning interest in athletic recovery. "I enjoy helping others, rehabbing people, and seeing other people get better, so mixing my interest in sports and helping others, I felt that physical therapy was just my calling," Martin told UTHSC. His transition to UT Health Science Center for graduate studies marked an extension of this passion, where he's embraced a holistic educational philosophy that values personal experiences just as much as academic success.

Support has been a significant part of Martin's journey. He attributes some of his growth to the first-gen scholarship he received and the mentorship of faculty who understand the individual behind the student ID. Barry Dale, PhD, DPT, program director and chair of the Department of Physical Therapy, lauded Martin's work ethic, stating in a UTHSC interview, "He has been a tremendous resource serving as a work-study student for the Department of Physical Therapy, and he will go far in life and in his future career as a physical therapist."

However, Martin's narrative encompasses more than just personal success; it spans the creation of a thriving community through the UT Health Science Center Running Club. This initiative was born from Martin's own marathon training, when he noticed a dearth of organized running groups for his peers. "I started a GroupMe and sent the link to a bunch of students on social media, and a bunch of them were interested and started joining," he explained, as per UTHSC. The club, which welcomes more than 100 members on their group message, now hosts regular morning and evening runs, fostering camaraderie amid stressful academic demands.