Jaretzy Hernandez

When Jaretzy Hernandez walked across the stage at Davie County Early College High School in 2019, she carried not only a diploma but a determination to break new ground as a first-generation college student, a future healthcare professional, and a proud representative of her community. Now a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a degree in Biology and minors in Neuroscience and Health & Society, she reflects on her path with deep gratitude. “College was a big adjustment for me – academically, financially, and personally,” she said. “As a first-generation student, I had to figure out a lot on my own.” That journey was eased, in part, by an award from the Dorothy Rucker Graham Scholarship through the Davie Community Foundation. “It helped cover basic expenses like books and living costs” she shared. “It may seem small, but it made a real difference when I was settling in. More than anything, it reminded me that my hometown was rooting for me.” After graduation, she began working as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital, gaining hands-on patient care experience in preparation for Physician Assistant school. Recently, she accepted a position as a Clinical Research Technician in Pediatrics, where she will contribute to a project addressing food insecurity in children. Jaretzy also continues to give back to the community. She volunteers at The Shalom Project and the Community Care Center in Winston-Salem, both of which serve many Davie County residents.” When asked about lessons learned along her journey, Jaretzy says “one of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that asking for help doesn’t mean you’re weak, it means you’re human. Being vulnerable enough to ask for help has opened so many doors for me.” As she prepares to start PA school in January, she offers advice to students following in her footsteps, “Don’t compare yourself to others. Everyone’s path is different, and that’s okay. It’s okay to change directions or start over. Give yourself grace.” Jaretzy hopes to graduate from PA school and find a position in Davie County working in women’s health. “My goal has always been to come back and serve in this area,” she said. “Communities like ours, especially those with limited diversity, need healthcare providers who reflect the people they serve. I want to be a familiar, trusted face in my community.” She credits much of her success to her mother, the faculty at Davie County Early College High School, UNC-Chapel Hill, the Davie Community Foundation, and the mentors who guided her. “I’m so grateful. My journey wouldn’t have been possible without them.”