'My journey is just beginning': ROTC program sparked young EMT's passion for care

At just 18 years old, Barbara Fernandez Vazquez has already accomplished what many in the health care field spend years working toward.

As a nationally registered emergency medical technician -- otherwise known as an EMT -- and a patient care technician at AdventHealth Winter Park's emergency department, Fernandez Vazquez is not only living out her passion for helping others but also inspiring the next generation of health care professionals.

In 2018, she embarked on a transformative journey as she left Venezuela to begin a new chapter of her life in the United States.

"No matter your age or background, you can make an impact."

Despite not being fluent in English at the time and facing the challenges of adapting to a new culture, she was determined to find her purpose.

It was during her time at Winter Park High School that she discovered her passion for emergency response through the school's Winter Park Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps Program.

Under the guidance of a new instructor eager to expand the program's community impact, Fernandez Vazquez participated in an after-school program that offered CPR, AED and First Aid certification through the American Red Cross.

From the very first class, she was captivated by the skills and knowledge needed to save lives in critical situations.

Driven by her newfound passion, Fernandez Vazquez quickly became a leader in the program.

After dedicating more than 12 hours of her weekends to become certified as a CPR instructor, she began training everyone from teachers to search and rescue team members and even children as young as eight years old.

By the end of her senior year, Fernandez Vazquez and her fellow student instructors had provided over 400 hours of lifesaving training to the community.

With the support of her ROTC instructors and a scholarship from the Winter Park Foundation, she attended the Orlando Medical Institute and earned her EMT certification shortly after graduating high school in 2024.

Through the connections Fernandez Vazquez made during her training, she secured a position at AdventHealth Winter Park's emergency department, where she now works alongside expert clinical team members, gaining hands-on experience and further solidifying her commitment to health care.

"I've always believed that when you're passionate about something, you should chase it with everything you have," she said.

Fernandez Vazquez's dedication to learning hasn't stopped there -- she is currently self-funding her education to become a licensed paramedic and eventually plans to pursue a medical degree.

What makes her story so impactful is her continued commitment to giving back. She regularly returns to her alma mater to mentor students, share about her journey and encourage them to explore EMS opportunities.

"My journey is just beginning, but I hope my story shows others that no matter your age or background, you can make an impact -- and save lives while doing it," she said.

Fernandez Vazquez's story is a testament to the power of determination, education and community support.