Speech-language pathology graduate persisted despite two hurricanes

By Kate Hunger

Robyn Hernandez didn’t let a couple of hurricanes derail her focus on finishing her master’s degree in speech-language pathology.

Hernandez was living in Fort Polk, Louisiana, and taking classes online when Hurricane Laura and Hurricane Delta hit six weeks apart in 2020. The deadly hurricanes knocked out power and internet service throughout the state and caused billions in damages.

“I drove to different places where there was power and service so I could to get my schoolwork done,” she said. “We were without power for one to two weeks each time, but I didn’t want to get behind. I’m grateful my professors worked with me throughout those unforeseen circumstances.”

In recognition of her academic excellence, career plan and work ethic, the Bexar County Medical Society Alliance this spring awarded Hernandez a scholarship — the first time a School of Health Professions student has received an award from the organization, said David Henzi, EdD, associate dean for academic and student affairs for the School of Health Professions.

“I wasn’t expecting it,” Hernandez said of the award. “I am so humbled and grateful. I feel like I have been so blessed in grad school.”

Hernandez graduated in May and is completing a pediatric clinical fellowship in Louisiana, after which she plans to start her own teletherapy business based in San Antonio.

Hernandez worked in medical administration earlier in her career but made the shift to speech-language pathology after reflecting on her own experience receiving speech therapy and that of her grandmother, who had speech therapy after a stroke. Hernandez discovered the speech-language pathology program at UT Health San Antonio while researching the profession.

“I have loved the medical side of it,” she said. “Every class I have taken is just amazing. The professors are just unbelievable.”