Physician Hughson Medical Office
Age: 39

Birthplace: Jalisco, Mexico

Family: Wife, Rachanee and children Jose Kristen, 16, Lorel-Elise 8, and Katrinna Isabella, 6

What was your goal or dream when you came to this country?

I was 7, so at that point I didn’t have any goals or aspirations. As I started growing up, in high school I wanted to be a dentist. I chose medicine when I was an undergraduate.

How long have you been in this country?

Since 1972.

What Obstacles, if any, did you have to overcome?

I came from a family of 12; I’m the seventh. We’re migrant farm workers; I’ve been working since I was 8. I packed grapes in Oregon, Olives in Corning and peaches in Yuba City. I did this until I changed high school.

What did you have to do in order to overcome them?

Basically if you work in the fields 10 to 12 hours a day you aspire to have more than what you have. I thought, “Do you want to do this all your life?” So I studied a lot and worked hard.

What did it take to achieve your goal?

A lot of hard work and dedication. I didn’t allow myself to take the easy way out. I didn’t do what others wanted me to. People wanted me to do migrant education stuff. But I didn’t. I took regular classes with regular kids. I knew I could. I knew I was capable.

What is the secret to your success?

Perseverance. Don’t give in even when people tell you that you can’t do it.

Do you have a next goal or step?

No, I’m quite happy where I am as I teach doctors in training, and I help the under-served, as well as others.

Advice or words of wisdom for others:

Work hard for your dreams and goals. Never give in.

Reprinted by permission of The Modesto Bee.