For University of Hartford student Ana Torres ’26, choosing respiratory care was about finding a career where compassion and health care come together to make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives.
A respiratory care major in the College of Education, Nursing and Health Professions (ENHP), Ana has already built an impressive foundation for her future career through leadership, clinical experience, research, and campus involvement.
Currently working as a respiratory tech at Yale New Haven Hospital and Connecticut Children's Medical Center (CCMC), Ana plans to continue growing in the respiratory field after graduation and hopes to work full time as a respiratory therapist at CCMC.
“UHart prepared me for my professional goals through hands-on simulation labs, supportive faculty, and diverse clinical experiences that allowed me to apply classroom knowledge in real health care settings,” she says.
Throughout her time at UHart, Ana pushed herself far beyond her comfort zone. Arriving on campus as a shy first-year student, she became deeply involved in the campus community, serving as president of the Respiratory Club, working as a resident assistant, participating in multiple organizations, completing internships, and serving as a research assistant, all while balancing two jobs.
“These experiences helped me build confidence, leadership skills, and meaningful professional connections,” she says.
Ana also completed two respiratory internships with Hartford HealthCare, experiences that strengthened both her clinical skills and passion for patient care.
In addition to her clinical work, Ana contributed to research as an assistant to Colleen Muñoz at the Hydration Health Center, where she helped study the relationship between hydration and long-term health across different age groups and medical conditions.
Her favorite part about UHart? “The strong sense of community and the opportunities it gave me to grow both professionally and personally.”
For incoming students, Ana offers simple but impactful advice: “Get involved, step outside of your comfort zone, and take advantage of every opportunity because you never know where it may lead you.”
Ana Torres ’26, Respiratory CareUHart prepared me for my professional goals through hands-on simulation labs, supportive faculty, and diverse clinical experiences that allowed me to apply classroom knowledge in real health care settings.