SNHU Spotlight: Savannah Martinez, BA in Psychology Grad

For Savannah Martinez, earning her psychology degree wasn’t just about the diploma; it was about showing her son what perseverance and hard work could achieve.

After crossing the stage at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) to receive her online bachelor’s degree in psychology, the Texas native reflected on the moment.

“I’m very happy to be here," she said. "Just being able to experience this moment with my son, being a single mother, it’s just something not only that I did for myself but for him.”

Martinez’s path to a degree was anything but easy. Initially, she had planned to become a teacher, but her plans were derailed when she was diagnosed with a life-threatening spinal tumor in 2018.

The tumor, which required surgery, temporarily paralyzed her, forcing her to relearn basic tasks such as walking and moving her hands.

“They told me being a teacher takes physical and mental, emotional, all those different things, and physically I knew I wasn't going to be able to handle that,” she said.

With teaching no longer an option, Martinez turned to psychology as a way to help others, despite her personal struggles.

Her decision to pursue psychology was spurred by her son, Zekiel. “My son inspired me because he got diagnosed with autism, and I know there are different kinds of therapies within that,” she said.

Through her degree, Martinez wishes to not only to build a career but also skills to better support her son. “I didn’t really make the decision just for myself, but to be able to find ways to help him advance in his life as well,” she said.

Her medical challenges made traditional, in-person schooling difficult. Despite the fatigue and moments of doubt, she found motivation in her son, who reminded her to keep moving forward.

One of the most memorable moments for Martinez was celebrating her achievement with her family.

“Being the baby of nine, my family is very excited,” she said, recalling how her relatives had witnessed her medical struggles and questioned what her future held. “Now I’m able to say, ‘Hey look what I have,’ and they’re very excited.”

Martinez’s journey was filled with challenges, but she offered encouraging words for others facing similar challenges.

“What may seem like the impossible is always possible. It’s just a matter of wanting it and putting your mind to it,” she said.

Ollie Burkett is a writer at Southern New Hampshire University, where he is pursuing his Master of Arts in English and Creative Writing. You can connect with him on LinkedIn.