Alejandro Rodriguez

Name: Alejandro “Arod” Adrian Rodriguez
Age: 19
Major: English
College: College of Liberal Arts
Hometown: Edinburg, TX
High School: Robert Vela High School, Edinburg, TX 

Why UTRGV?
I chose UTRGV because it allowed me to stay close to family.

What made you decide on your current major?
I decided to major in education since both of my parents are educators and have instilled in me to be a service-oriented leader. I enjoy helping others along their journey and love teaching those around me some of what I have learned. 

How are you maneuvering being a student during the COVID-19 pandemic?
I like to plan my week out on a wall calendar; I like to enjoy each day, so I take it one day at a time. I do not like to focus on negative things, so I did not allow the pandemic to take away from my first year in college. I joined an organization and had weekly Zoom meetings that kept me connected with my peers.

What are your greatest strengths and what are some challenges? 
I consider my personality to be my greatest strength. I am easy going, friendly, and athletic. A challenge for me has been my severe ADHD because, at times, it made focusing difficult. For example, on a given day, I might have spent a little too much time on my phone or Instagram.  However, I refocused by going out for a jog, biking, or bike riding. I would get back to my room and look at my wall calendar to begin completing my checklist. I decided to use my phone or social media to give myself a break. 

What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
My first goal is to graduate and become a high school teacher. I plan to continue with my education to get a master’s and eventually a Ph.D. in Education. I hope to inspire and lead others to continue with their post-secondary education. I want to be the best teacher possible.  I want to help kids and be a positive role model for youth.

What do you like most about UTRGV?
The professors are very easy to talk to. They care about their students. I feel that the staff are very helpful and have made the transition from high school to college very easy.

What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
Being a Vaquero has helped me to continue valuing my family and community because Vaqueros “stick” together.   

What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
UTRGV has allowed me to participate in SGA as a student leader. I have been able to volunteer at my local church through the Knights of Columbus. UTRGV has also allowed me to participate in awesome academic programs that are helping me reach my goals.

What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing degrees during the COVID-19 pandemic?
My advice is to remember to take time for yourself. Do not stress all the little things; instead, focus on the things that matter most such as your family and close friends. Do not overstress when it comes to school. Enjoy it, and things will come naturally. Do not let obstacles defeat you. You can do this!