FAMU Made: Mark Futch Carries FAMU Excellence Into Health Care
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – After graduating from Florida A&M University (FAMU), Mark Futch, is beginning his career as a health care professional while carrying with him the standard his professors emphasized throughout his time on The Hill: represent FAMU with excellence.
Futch, a Summer 2026 cardiopulmonary science graduate, is credits his academic training, campus involvement and faculty mentorship for preparing him to enter a career as a respiratory therapist.
Growing up, Futch knew he wanted to pursue a career in health care but initially explored several options before discovering respiratory therapy.
“I looked up and did some research on what all they do and what all they contribute to inside the hospital field, and I really liked it,” Futch said.
His academic program provided opportunities to apply what he learned through clinical rotations in hospital settings, giving him hands-on experience before entering the workforce.
Futch is now considering several job opportunities in Florida and Georgia, including the Atlanta area. He said professional growth, benefits, compensation and location will factor into his final decision.
For Futch, reaching this point represents the culmination of what he described as “a long journey,” one shaped not only by academics but also by the relationships and experiences he gained at FAMU.
Making the Most of The Hill
Futch chose FAMU in part because its Tallahassee campus allowed him to remain close to his hometown in Georgia. Once enrolled, he made an intentional effort to become involved and build connections.
He joined the Big Brother Little Brother Mentoring Program and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. The experiences helped Futch, who describes himself as naturally reserved, meet new people, develop friendships and expand his network.
Mark Futch, a Florida A&M University cardiopulmonary science graduate, poses with
memorabilia representing his journey as a Rattler. During his time on The Hill, Futch
embraced opportunities to grow personally and professionally, preparing him for a
career in respiratory therapy. (Photo courtesy of Mark Futch.)
His professors also played an important role in shaping his experience.
“They always motivated us to be the best version of ourselves,” he said.
More importantly, Futch said his professors reinforced the responsibility that comes
with representing FAMU beyond campus.
“They made sure that we were striving for success and that we’re the best of the best,” he said. “Whenever we do go out to our workplace and you say, ‘I’m a FAMU graduate,’ they know that you’re held to the highest standard.”
During his time at Florida A&M University, cardiopulmonary science graduate Mark Futch
became a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., an experience he said helped him
build meaningful connections and make the most of his time on The Hill. (Photo courtesy
of Mark Futch.)
That preparation is something Futch will take with him as he begins the next chapter of his career.
While he is open to pursuing additional education in the future, his immediate goal is to establish himself professionally and gain experience as a respiratory therapist.
“I’m just focused on starting my career now,” he said.
Advice for Future Rattlers
As Futch closes his undergraduate chapter, his advice to current and incoming Rattlers is simple:
“Definitely make the best of your experience,” Futch said. “It’s going to be the stepping stone from high school to being a full adult on your own.”
Mark Futch celebrates earning his bachelor's degree in cardiopulmonary science from
Florida A&M University. The Georgia native said his time at FAMU prepared him to begin
the next phase of his journey in respiratory therapy. (Photo courtesy of Mark Futch.)
He also encourages students to meet new people and take advantage of the opportunities available at FAMU.
“Get up and do it,” he said.
It is advice that reflects Futch’s own journey. By stepping outside of his comfort zone, becoming involved on campus and embracing the expectations of his academic program, he leaves The Hill prepared to enter the health care profession and represent FAMU in the next phase of his journey.
Media Contact:
Ashley Flete
Senior Communications Specialist
ashley1.flete@famu.edu
