What respiratory therapy taught me beyond medicine
I sacrificed 21 months of my life to complete respiratory therapy school after leaving behind a career I originally planned to stay in for the next 30 years. I never imagined myself working in the medical field, but once I entered clinicals and began helping patients in the hospital, I realized how much I genuinely loved it.
What became difficult for me was not the profession itself, but some of the experiences within the program. Early on, I believed we were entering a field built around teamwork, compassion, professionalism, and patient care. Unfortunately, as time went on, I witnessed a level of immaturity, disrespect, and toxicity among certain students that was honestly disturbing.
Some individuals carried themselves as if they already knew everything even acting as though they were above physicians, instructors, or fellow classmates. Confidence is important in healthcare, but arrogance is dangerous. The lack of respect shown toward instructors and toward one another made me question the kind of environment some people may eventually bring into patient care.
What bothered me most was the mindset of superiority instead of teamwork. Healthcare should never be about “I’m better than you.” It should be about supporting each other, learning together, and doing what is best for the patient. There were moments where I truly thought to myself: if my family were hospitalized, I would not want certain people involved in their care based on the attitudes and behavior I witnessed during the program.
At the same time, I understand that school does not always define who someone will become later in life. Some people mature after graduation, grow into the responsibility of the profession, and eventually become excellent healthcare providers. I genuinely hope that happens.
As for myself, I stayed focused on getting through the program, studying, and making it to the finish line. Looking back, there are things I probably should have spoken up about more, but I had a tremendous amount on my plate mentally, emotionally, and academically.
Despite everything, I am still moving forward. I will continue toward becoming a respiratory therapist, and I take my board exam soon. My hope is that the toxicity I experienced within this particular group is not representative of the majority of hospitals or healthcare teams, because the true purpose of entering healthcare is to help people whether it’s patients, coworkers, families, communities, or classmates.
People enter this field for a reason. That reason should never be forgotten. If someone is only here for money, status, or because they had no other direction in life, then they are entering healthcare for the wrong reasons. Patients deserve compassion, professionalism, humility, and teamwork from the people trusted with their care.